Overmodulation in subcarrier multiplexed video FM broad-band optical networks

The probability of an SCM (subcarrier multiplexed) signal falling outside the linear region of a laser diode is calculated in order to determine the overmodulation that may be practically employed for multichannel video distribution in single-octave SCM networks. The overmodulation is predicted as a function of the number of subcarriers in single-octave SCM systems supporting up to about 70 FM video channels, for SNRs (signal-to-noise ratios) of 47 dB (I/PAL), and 56 dB (M/NTSC). The RMS optical modulation index (OMI) is demonstrated to be a more useful performance parameter than the linear OMI in SCM systems carrying a large number of channels. A 47 dB weighted SNR (with 4 dB margin) is deemed sufficient for acceptable picture quality in cable distribution systems, whereas a 56 dB value would be required for long-distance point-to-point optical links. RMS OMI values of around 70 and 50, respectively, can be employed