Performance implications of mode partition fluctuations in nearly single longitudinal mode lasers

A statistical model of mode partition fluctuations is developed for semiconductor laser diodes with a single dominant lasing mode and one vestigial side mode. It is the basis of a rigorous analysis of the influence of partition fluctuations on the performance of digital lightwave transmission systems. A Gauss quadrature rule is used to evaluate the average probability of error in the presence of mode-partition-dependent shot noise, photodetector multiplication noise, circuit noise, and intersymbol interference. This methodology permits the determination of reliable performance estimates enabling the establishment of permissible degrees of mode partition fluctuations