Reduction of interferometric optical crosstalk using phase-scrambling technique

We discuss an interferometric crosstalk reduction concept in optical WDM networks by introducing phase dithering in optical signals. The phase dithering is generated through a phase modulator, driven with filtered noise spectra. An IM/DD optical transmission scheme is used to experimentally verify the effects of this reduction concept. Crosstalk and signal exhibit a worst case condition, namely, its wavelength and state of polarization are aligned. Experimental data show that a reduction of 7 dB for crosstalk requirement could be achieved with help of a phase-scrambling technique.