Broadband dispersion and dispersion slope compensation in high bit rate and ultra long haul systems

This presentation reviews the essentials of dispersion compensating technology for nonzero dispersion shifted fibers. The implications of using the various existing technologies are discussed. Three recent developments in the world of long haul transmission has required one to re-evaluate the nature of dispersion compensation in NZ-DSF based systems. These are: increased bandwidth (> 32 nm), ultra long haul transmission distances (distances in excess of 2000 km) on land and 40 Gbps systems. All of the above, dramatically change the dispersion compensation requirement. We will discuss the different solutions that have been proposed in the literature to achieve the required dispersion compensating characteristics with primary emphasis being on dispersion compensating fiber.