10Gbit/s Multimode Fiber Link using Power-Efficient Orthogonal-Frequency-Division Multiplexing

Opt Express. 2005 Dec 12;13(25):10003-9. doi: 10.1364/opex.13.010003.

Abstract

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) can provide electronic dispersion compensation of optical paths. However, it requires a high bias to convert bipolar electrical signals to unipolar optical signals, so is inefficient in optical power for a given electrical signal to noise ratio. We present a novel method of transmitting OFDM signals over multimode fibers that increases electrical SNR by 7 dB for a given optical power. Using simulations, we show a 1.8 dB sensitivity benefit over 10 Gbit/s NRZ (Non-Return to Zero) and demonstrate compensation of intermodal dispersion in a 300-m multimode fiber that cannot support NRZ.