TSP #333 - Would You Like Your Polarization Scrambled? Stressing Coherent Optical Communication Link

In this episode Shahriar explores the mechanism and reasons for fiber optic polarization scramblers. The video discusses the many fascinating methods for embedding data onto fiber optic links. Amplitude modulation, phase modulation, dual polarization (MIMO), wavelength division multiplexing, & spatial division multiplexing are all discussed. The overall architecture of typical coherent optical communication systems is also discussed. With the theory of coherent communication in place, we can dive into the importance & application of such a polarization scrambler instrument. We further dive into how the unit works followed by a complete optical test system which characterizes the polarization scrambling capabilities. Lastly, a complete teardown shows the ultrasonic, multi-segment transducers which induce birefringence on the fiber segment and cause polarization scrambling. Please consider supporting The Signal Path: https://www.TheSignalPath.com/Donate   / thesignalpath   Other links: https://www.TheSignalPath.com   / thesignalpath