Optically compensating the PMD-induced RF power fading for single-sideband subcarrier-multiplexed systems

We demonstrate a novel technique for optically compensating the PMD-induced RF power fading that occurs in single-sideband (SSB) subcarrier-multiplexed systems. By aligning the polarization states of the optical carrier and the SSB, RF power fading due to all orders of PMD can be completely compensated. The 5% RF power fading tail is improved from 13.5 dB to <1.5 dB, as verified from both experimental measurement (300 samples) and computer simulation (10000 samples). This technique is independent of the DGD of the optical fiber link and the subcarrier frequency.