Agilent Technologies 86038A User Manual page 294

Glossary
294
Dispersion Terminology
∆τ
Differential Group Delay (DGD)
The difference in group delay between the fast and slow polarization
modes of a fiber or device at a particular wavelength and temperature.
∆τ
< > Mean Differential Group Delay (DGD)
In fiber measurements, the mean value of the DGD over wavelength and
temperature. Applies to the long-fiber regime, and assumes sufficient
range of wavelength or temperature.
ω
Radian Frequency
The rate in which an angle changes.Expressed in radians/second. Also
know as angular velocity.
ƒ
Frequency in Hertz.
L Correlation Length
C
Distance over which polarization state is decorrelated.
ASE Amplified Spontaneous Emissions
The unpolarized noise output of an erbium doped fiber amplifier (EDFA).
Basis States
Two orthogonally polarized beams which, when superimposed, create a
third polarization state. Assumes monochromatic light.
Beat Length
The shortest length of uniformly birefringent fiber over which the fast and
slow polarization modes experience 360-degrees of phase shift.
Birefringence
The property of optical fiber and devices that causes light to decompose
into two orthogonally polarized waves traveling at slightly different speeds.
Agilent 86038A Optical Dispersion Analyzer, Third Edition
Dispersion Terminology