POLARIZATION MODE DISPERSION CHARACTERIZATION OF SINGLE-MODE OPTICAL-FIBER USING BACKSCATTERING TECHNIQUE

This paper presents a completely new method able to characterize polar ization mode dispersion (PMD) properties of random birefringent single -mode fibers, using polarization sensitive backscattering technique, W e show analytical relationships between evolution of polarization stat e of backscattered signal with respect to state of polarization of for ward one. Our technique allows to measure differential group delay, be at length, and correlation length at the same time over long single-mo de fibers using only one fiber end. Experimental data fit very well wi th numerical results, confirming the capability of our technique for f ast routine characterization of PMD during cabling, before and after i nstallation.