Dispersion Compensation Device - Its Current Status and Prospect

Dispersion compensation devices are indispensable for long-haul and high-speed optical transmission systems. Chromatic dispersion and polarization mode dispersion are two key principle parameters which we have to investigate in designing leading edge optical systems. Recently variable type dispersion compensation devices have become especially important as a means of realizing system architecture flexibility and therefore there are high expectations for such devices in the market. In this paper, the current status of compensation technology and related device technology trends are reviewed and examined, and a review of expected future trends is also included.