Increasing the Capacity of Optical Nonlinear Interfering Channels

In this project, we will answer different questions regarding information transmission through optical fibres. For example, what is the maximum amount of information that can be reliably transported by optical fibres? Or how to design coded modulation systems that approach this limit? To answer these questions, we will first develop accurate channel models for the nonlinear optical channel in the high-power regime. Novel coded modulation transceivers tailored to the nonlinear optical channel will then be designed. Techniques that will be considered in this project include (but not limited to):

• Signal (constellation) shaping: geometrical and probabilistic shaping;
• Error control coding (FEC), coded modulation, and maximum likelihood detection;
• Asymptotic analysis and mismatched decoding theory;
• Nonlinear compensation techniques, such as digital back-propagation and Volterra equalizers;
• Novel signaling techniques: nonlinear Fourier transform and eigenvalue communications.

Optical fibers are strands of glass with the thickness of human hair that carry nearly all the world's Internet traffic. However, the installed fibers are running out of capacity. This project will use mathematics to increase the capacity of these fibers, which will guarantee faster future broadband connections.