Novel PMD measurement method based on OFDR using a frequency-shifted feedback fiber laser

We propose a new method to measure polarization mode dispersion (PMD) in optical fibers based on optical frequency domain reflectometry technique. In this method the PMD is directly determined from the beat frequency generated by interference between lights from the Fresnel reflection at the end of the device under test, which makes the measurement at single end of the device possible. An automated PMD measurement system is demonstrated on polarization maintaining fibers with a frequency-shifted feedback fiber laser as a light source.