Non-linear pulse propagation on standard fiber systems with periodic dispersion compensation

Soliton-like pulse (<35 ps) propagation over standard fiber using large amplifier spacings (>50 km) and periodic dispersion compensation is demonstrate experimentally and theoretically. The optimum degree of compensation and optimum launch power is discussed. It is shown that stable soliton transmission is possible on dispersion allocated standard single mode fiber (SSMF) systems. The systems are shown to be very robust, allowing for large amplifier spacings. For long amplifier spacing, it is optimum to operate with a compensation such that the optimum launch power is equal to the soliton power. This technique should enable upgrade of systems on commercially installed optical fiber cables to 10 Gb/s medium long haul (500 - 1000 km) without regeneration, using Er-doped fiber amplifiers and dispersion compensating fiber (DCF).