Effect of polarization deviation in OTDM de-multiplexing using nonlinear optical loop mirror

Abstract

Today, the optical communication is of great interest in developing extensive, high-speed networking infrastructures in all optical domains. High speed data rates are achieved in optical domain using different multiplexing techniques, mainly WDM and OTDM. WDM systems are somewhat matured today and are commercially deployed. OTDM systems are still in the research level and a promising technology for the future. Multiplexing and demultiplexing in optical domain is still a challenge mainly due to immaturity of all optical devices. All optical switching devices, which can potentially operate at very high speeds and much faster than electronic devices, are expected to play important role in the future optical communication systems. The large nonlinearity offered by the optical fibers demonstrates the potential for all optical switching. In this thesis, Demultiplexing of OTDM signal using NOLM is studied. The NOLM, whose operation principle is based on the fiber nonlinear effects, has been identified as the suitable best candidate for the demultiplexing of OTDM signal due to its simple configuration, low switching power operation and over Tb/s switching potentiality. This thesis investigates theoretically a dominant issue on NOLM demultiplexer. The impact of polarization deviation between the signal and control pulses and the switching efficiency of the NOLM demultiplexer for various power levels are studied. A complete set of equations concerning the different states of polarization and considering the SPM and XPM as the nonlinear effect of the fiber are established and simulated using MATLAB software.