M ARUMUGAM

Department of Physics, Anna University, Chennai 600 025, India

Abstract.

This paper deals with the historical development of optical communication systems and their failures initially. Then the different generations in optical fiber communication along with their features are discussed. Some aspects of total internal reflection, different types of fibers along with their size and refractive index profile, dispersion and loss mechanisms are also mentioned. Finally the general system of optical fiber communication is briefly mentioned along with its advantages and limitations. Future soliton based optical fiber communication is also highlighted.

Keywords:  Bandwidth; optical fiber; group index; group velocity; soliton v-number; dispersion.

Pacs Nos.  42.65 Tg; 47.81 Dp; 42.79 Sz; 05.45 Yv