Dispersion Management of Optical Transmission Systems

Abstract

This thesis consists of experimental demonstration of different forms of dispersion management of optically transmitted signals. The thesis investigates how these different forms can be modified and then used to improve an optical transmission system. The results in this thesis have been separated and presented in four different sections: The use of present technology and using this to aid the demodulation of the signal is explored in the first part. The use of wave division multiplexers, that are already commonly used at the receive end of transmission spans, is shown in experimental results to provide a novel but simple unique method to provide a shift from the phase domain to the amplitude keyed communication system. The second area of investigation is into a tunable dispersion device. The device was placed under laboratory conditions that represented real life situations. The measurements gained show how a device can be used for a more versatile and adaptive communication system. Thirdly, an investigation into a novel application to optical transmission system, Quasi-lossless amplification. The method uses broadened Raman pumped light to amplify an optical transmitted signal. The experimental results show how this transmission system can provide a more improved amplified scheme compared to that of the more commonly used amplified systems. Finally, there is an investigation into another novel amplification scheme for optical communications, Optical Phase Conjugation. This scheme, which reverses the dispersive effects at a midpoint, is reviewed and then experimentally compared to the amplification scheme of Quasi-lossless.