Simulations of a nonlinear optical loop mirror demultiplexer using random birefringence fiber

Summary form only given. Demultiplexing channels of data at rates in the 100-Gbit/s range will require that advanced all-optical devices be designed and developed. Computer simulations will become increasingly useful in prototyping these devices. We have developed a computer code that accurately predicts the switching characteristics of a demultiplexer operating in the picosecond range. The technique used for the simulations is the split step Fourier method. Randomly varying birefringence is modeled by introducing a random rotation of the birefringence axis Θ_i at the beginning of each step. The polarization controller is implemented numerically by multiplying the field by the appropriate Jones matrix for a linear retarder (wave plate) of orientation α and retardance φ. Values for α and φ, are found by allowing the control pulse to propagate around the loop in the absence of the signal pulse.