Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) mitigation vs. 2R and 3R regeneration in ultra long-haul transmission

Abstract

In transmission lines limited by polarization mode dispersion (PMD) there is the option of instead of using PMD mitigation equipment, use regenerators either with (3R) or without (2R) clock recovery. We review some suggested approaches for PMD mitigation and regeneration, and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of the various approaches.