Polarization Controller Cuts Distortion

Designed to reduce distortion caused by polarization changes in high-speed, long-haul optical networks, this controller device is intended for use in a polarization mode dispersion (PMD) compensator in 10- and 40-Gb systems. The controller can change polarization modes in real-time during optical transmissions. And it functions in both C and L bands and uses a five-stage tuning process that is said to provide long-term stability.
Compared to mechanical-based polarization controllers that have a finite waveplate rotation range for converting the polarization, the new controller is said to provide endless, reset-free conversions. Housed in a slim, hermetically sealed package, the controller measures 4.64" x 0.6" x 0.26".