Improved multimode fibre link BER calculations due to modal noise and non-self-pulsating laser diodes

Abstract

A modal noise model is presented that combines many features of previous theories such as varying fibre contrast, exponential noise p.d.f. and Gaussian noise p.d.f. The model also includes a new feature: the ability to treat multiple lossy connectors in the same link. This model is verified through extensive experimentation and is shown to be conservative, i.e. predicted noise penalties are larger than those observed. Using the model, modal noise penalties are predicted for a number of different link configurations, and laser parameters that result in acceptable amounts of modal noise are identified. The model is also demonstrated as a design tool for determining laser parameters that result in acceptable amounts of modal noise in typical links. © 1995 Chapman & Hall.