The dynamics of inter-channel nonlinear distortions in fiber-transmission systems

Inter-channel nonlinear processes that are responsible for nonlinear interference noise (NLIN) in fiber optic transmission, can be classified as two-pulse, three-pulse, or four-pulse collisions. Each type of collision is shown to have a unique signature and the nature of NLIN is determined by the relative importance of the various classes of pulse collisions. The pulse-collision picture provides a simple and intuitive explanation to all of the reported phenomena, and suggests possible paths for their cancelation.