EXFO's PMD Measurement Method Approved By International Telecommunication Union
*PMD is a physical phenomenon inherent to optical fiber and optical components that causes a statistical spreading of light pulses as they travel along a network. This degrades the quality of the transmission signal and, in turn, limits the transmission rates carried by optical networks.
EXFO's test method, better known as Generalized Interferometric (GINTY) analysis, improves upon and extends the scope of the Traditional Interferometric (TINTY) model:
- Optical links, which contain erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs), can be tested end-to-end for PMD through GINTY analysis.
- PMD, down to experimental uncertainty, can now be measured (6 femtoseconds, typical).
- GINTY results are traceable to a reference test method known as Stokes Parameter Evaluation.
The ITU became the third leading standards body to approve GINTY analysis. EXFO's test method has also been standardized by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA).
"In keeping with EXFO's "Expertise Reaching Out" reputation, we are proud that our research efforts have further improved test and measurement standards in our industry," said Gregory Schinn, Chief Technology Officer of EXFO's Optical-Layer Product Group. "This method is the only test approach that is truly applicable, without any limits or restrictions, in all field-related PMD measurements. More importantly, we have taken this technological expertise and developed the only portable PMD analyzer on the market that is based on GINTY analysis. Its impressive capability has been demonstrated by testing over an optically amplified transatlantic link from Nova Scotia to Ireland in a hero experiment — an unmatched demonstration."
About EXFO
EXFO is a recognized test and measurement expert in the global telecommunications industry through the design and manufacture of advanced and innovative solutions as well as best-in-class customer support. The Telecom Division, which represents the company's main business activity, offers fully integrated and complete test solutions to network service providers, system vendors and component manufacturers in approximately 70 countries. One of EXFO's strongest competitive advantages is its PC/Windows-based modular platforms that host a wide range of tests across optical, physical, data and network layers, while maximizing technology reuse across several market segments. The Photonics and Life Sciences Division mainly leverages core telecom technologies to offer value-added solutions in the life sciences, high-precision assembly and research sectors. For more information about EXFO, visit www.exfo.com.
Source: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc.