Abstract

Because passive-optical-networks share the cost of the feeder among many users, and because subcarrier-multiplexing provides an easy way to access independent channels,¹ subcarrier-multiplexed passive-optical-networks (SCM-PONs) are a good candidate for fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC) deployment. Unfortunately, optical-beat-interference (OBI) can induce unacceptable bit-error-rates in a SCM-PON. It is well known that broadening the optical spectrum of the sources reduces the spectral noise density due to OBI.^2,4 We have demonstrated that this broadening can be achieved by introducing strong "clipping tones" (optical-modulation depth > 1) on each of the lasers. By carefully selecting the RF band used to carry signals, and that used for "clipping tones," OBI can be reduced without the clipping inducing errors. Error-free performance has been achieved, even in the presence of worst-case OBI.

© 1996 Optical Society of America