Characterization of fibers in an existing network for high speed system (10 Gb/s or greater) compatibility

With OC-192 communications systems being commercially available and higher bit rate systems in development, prudent telecommunications network adminis trators are testing their installed fibers to determine if they can be succ essfully used at 10 Gb/s and higher. Together with New Brunswick Telephone (NBTel), the Fiber Optics Group at UNB have tested various installed fibers and cables in the NBTel network for their losses at wavelengths of 1244, 1 310, 1550, and 1625 nm, as well as for strain and polarization mode dispers ion (PMD). Weather conditions, age, place of installation, and cable types have also been considered. Aging does not seem to affect the performance of the fibers. Although most fibers are high-speed system compatible when loo king at attenuation measurements, about 40% of the fibers tested would not meet the 10 Gb/s OC-192 system manufacturer's design guidelines concerning PMD.