Title

Space-division multiplexing: the next frontier in optical communication

Authors

Authors

Adv. Opt. Photonics

Comments

Authors: contact us about adding a copy of your work at STARS@ucf.edu

Abbreviated Journal Title

J. Appl. Phys.

Keywords

FEW-MODE-FIBER; FREQUENCY-DOMAIN EQUALIZATION; MULTI-CORE FIBERS; ADD-DROP MULTIPLEXER; LARGE EFFECTIVE-AREA; ON-CHIP; PHOTONIC LANTERNS; DEPENDENT LOSS; POLARIZATION DISPERSION; NONLINEAR PROPAGATION; Optics

Abstract

Space-division multiplexing (SDM) uses multiplicity of space channels to increase capacity for optical communication. It is applicable for optical communication in both free space and guided waves. This paper focuses on SDM for fiber-optic communication using few-mode fibers or multimode fibers, in particular on the critical challenge of mode crosstalk. Multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) equalization methods developed for wireless communication can be applied as an electronic method to equalize mode crosstalk. Optical approaches, including differential modal group delay management, strong mode coupling, and multicore fibers, are necessary to bring the computational complexity for MIMO mode crosstalk equalization to practical levels. Progress in passive devices, such as (de) multiplexers, and active devices, such as amplifiers and switches, which are considered straightforward challenges in comparison with mode crosstalk, are reviewed. Finally, we present the prospects for SDM in optical transmission and networking. (C) 2014 Optical Society of America.

Subjects

G. F. Li; N. Bai; N. B. Zhao;C. Xia

Volume

6

Issue/Number

4

Publication Date

1-1-2014

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

413

Last Page

487

WOS Identifier

WOS:000346874700002

ISSN

1943-8206

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