Novel PMD measurement method based on OFDR using a frequency-shifted feedback fiber laser

We propose a new method to measure polarization mode dispersion (PMD) in op tical fibers based on optical frequency domain reflectometry technique. In this method the PMD is directly determined from the beat frequency generate d by interference between lights from the Fresnel reflection at the end of the device under test, which makes the measurement at single end of the dev ice possible. An automated PMD measurement system is demonstrated on polari zation maintaining fibers with a frequency-shifted feedback fiber laser as a light source. (C) 2001 Optical Society of America.