Influence of fiber parameters on the performance of a SCM_QPSK transmission system

The performance of a Subcarrier Multiplexing (SCM) optical fibre system using QPSK modulation is analysed in this paper. Our results will show that it is possible to increase the system bandwidth by controlling the input optical power. Various fibre dispersion values and subcarrier channel spacing are used in order to check the bandwidth increase proportional to the optical power. The transmission bandwidth was studied in terms of fibre dispersion and input optical power. The frequency response was measured and computed. Limitations imposed by nonlinear distortions mainly due to interplay between dispersion and self-phase modulation are verified as well. The analysis to the SCM_QPSK transmission system such as the subcarrier channel spacing, signal input power, available frequency bandwidth under the fibre specifications and system conditions operation will be explored in a specific application. It means applying this technique after setting the requirements necessary to the operation of an optical ground-wire (OPGW) already installed system. The results showed an increase of the transmission bandwidth as the optical power increases. For QPSK modulation, power penalties smaller than 1 dB were obtained only for channel spacing higher than 1.2 multiplied by the symbol rate. Experimental measurements obtained in the literature were used to validate our results. Eye opening and received eye diagrams will be evaluated in order to have a simpler receiver layout and make the entire system more reliable, since it will become more robust to error disturbance, maintenance is easier and system upgrades will be facilitated.