Coherent detection for fiber optic networks

Speaker: Dr. Michael G. Taylor, University College LondonAbstract: Years ago coherent detection appeared the best choice for high bit rate receivers in fiber optic communications networks. Then the idea was abruptly discarded after the arrival of the EDFA. Today coherent detection once again offers an attractive solution to many of the issues facing long haul and metro optical transmission. In the latest incarnation real time digital signal processing is used to extract the signal from the coherent mixing products, and it is possible to apply processing in the digital domain to compensate for unlimited amounts of chromatic dispersion and other impairments. The results of experiments will be presented showing how coherent detection is implemented and how it can outperform direct detection in many ways. The flexibility offered by the DSP to modify the optical signal to fit each fiber link has benefits for optical network design, and some of these will be discussed.Bio: Dr. Taylor has 15 years experience in the development of fiber optic transmission products. After completing the Ph.D. degree at University College London in 1990 he joined STL Laboratories (subsequently Nortel) to work on the development of transmission products using optical amplifiers. In 1996 he moved to Ciena Corporation, where he worked on long haul transmission products. He led the development of the 10Gb/s product, and contributed to innovative design features such as the four wave mixing tolerant WDM solution. In 2003 he took an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at University College London, where he began work on new applications for optical coherent detection. He has published over 25 papers and been awarded 14 patents.Host: Professor Alan Willner, willner@usc.edu

Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - -539

Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

Contact: Mayumi Thrasher