Tunable chromatic dispersion and polarization mode dispersion compensator utilizing a virtually imaged phased array

The present invention provides a chromatic dispersion and polarization mode dispersion compensator utilizing a Virtually Imaged Phased Array (VIPA) and birefringent wedges to moderate chromatic dispersion and polarization mode dispersion (PMD). The compensator in accordance with the present invention propagates the composite optical signal in a forward direction; separates the wavelengths in the band of wavelengths in each of the plurality of channels, where the each of the wavelengths in the band is spatially distinguishable from the other wavelengths in the band; spatially separates each wavelength of each band of wavelengths into a plurality of polarized rays; and reflects the plurality of polarized rays toward a return direction, where dispersion is added to the reflected plurality of polarized rays such that the unwanted chromatic dispersion and PMD are compensated. The compensator in accordance with the present invention provides simultaneous tunable compensation of chromatic dispersion and polarization mode dispersion utilizing a single apparatus. A system which utilizes the compensator is thus cost effective to manufacture.