Standard Reference Material 2538 for Polarization-Mode Dispersion (Non-Mode-Coupled)

Published

July 1, 2002

Author(s)

Paul A. Williams, Shelley M. Etzel, Jonathan D. Kofler

Abstract

A temperature-controlled, single-mode-fiber-pigtailed quartz plate has been assembled as an artifact standard for polarization-mode dispersion (non-mode-coupled). The design parameters and performance of this device are discussed. The artifact, Standard Reference Material SRM 2538, provides an environmentally stable value of wavelength-averaged differential group delay (DGD) that is nominally 300 fs. This value is certified for any wavelength span of 50 nm or greater that is contained in the 1250-1650 nm window. A slightly higher accuracy number is also provided for wavelength-averaged DGD over the 1480-1570 nm window. Details of the certifying measurements and associated uncertainties are given.

Citation

Special Publication (NIST SP) - 260-145

Report Number

260-145

NIST Pub Series

Special Publication (NIST SP)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.260-145

Local Download

Keywords

birefringence, DGD, differential group delay, PMD, polarization-mode dispersion, standard reference material

Citation

Williams, P. , Etzel, S. and Kofler, J. (2002), Standard Reference Material 2538 for Polarization-Mode Dispersion (Non-Mode-Coupled), Special Publication (NIST SP), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.260-145, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=24407 (Accessed October 17, 2025)