Lightwave subcarrier CATV transmission systems

The design and performance of multichannel amplitude-modulated (AM) vestigial-sideband (VSB) lightwave cable television (CATV) systems are described. Requirements on linearity and noise are derived, and factors limiting the performance of the laser transmitters and receivers are discussed. For the high-performance lasers the carrier-to-noise ratio and composite second- and third-order distortions are acceptable for video trunk systems. Impairments because of fiber reflections and dispersion and mode partition fluctuations in the laser are discussed. Feedforward, feedback, and predistortion are discussed; difficulties with each prevent immediate application. The use of LiNbO₃ external modulators and high-power solid-state lasers is considered. The third-order distortion and insertion loss of the modulator more than counteract the high available laser power (100 mW), making this alternative unattractive unless a third-order linearizer can be implemented