Mode Partition Noise In Nearly Single Mode Lasers With Multiple Side Modes

Abstract

The power penalty estimation for fiber optic communication due to mode partition noise in nearly single mode lasers is discussed. Nearly single mode lasers are modeled here as those with a single dominant mode and n side modes with significant strength. The dropout rate of each side mode obeys exponential distribution. The combined distribution of the dropout rate for n side modes is derived here. This distribution is combined with the statistically independent Gaussian receiver noise in estimating error probability and hence the power penalty. Calculations show that to ensure a 10 -12 error rate, the ratio of the main mode to the side modes must be greater than 57:1 for one side mode and greater than 67:1 for two side modes.