High-order mode based dispersion compensating modules using spatial mode conversion

High-Order Mode Dispersion Compensating Modules (HOM-DCM) using spatial optical transformations for mode conversion are reviewed. It is shown that mode transformers using this technology can be designed to transform the LP01 mode of SMF fibers to the LP02 mode of specially designed dispersion compensating High-Order Mode Fiber (HOMF), with typical insertion loss of ∼1 dB, and typical extinction ratio to other modes less than−20 dB. The HOMF itself can provide high negative dispersion [typically in the range of 400–600 ps/(nm km)], and high negative dispersion slope, allowing efficient compensation of all types of transmission fiber. Combining two mode transformers with HOMF and possibly trim fiber for fine-tuning, results, for example, in a HOM-DCM that compensates 100 km LEAF R © fiber, with Insertion loss < 3.5 dB, and Multi-Path Interference (MPI)< −36 dB. MPI phenomena in HOM-DCMs is characterized, and shown to comprise both coherent and incoherent parts, and to result from both the mode transformers and fiber coupling within the HOMF. MPI values of < −36 dB have been shown to allow error free transmission of 10 Gb/s signals over up to 6000 km. Finally, a number of applications well suited to the properties of HOM-DCMs are reviewed.