Reflectometric measurements of polarization properties in optical-fiber links

Polarization sensitive reflectometric techniques can be effectively used to perform spatially resolved measurements of polarization properties of fiber optic link - such as birefringence, polarization mode dispersion and polarization dependent loss. In particular, this contribution is focused on polarization sensitive OTDR and provides a survey of its theory and main applications. Special emphasis is given to the characterization of fiber birefringence, that allows to inspect the fiber while cabled and, consequently, to test and improve the cabling process. In addition, the analysis of the birefringence also allows to define reliable mathematical models, which are essential for the design of low polarization mode dispersion fibers. Reflectometric measurements of polarization mode dispersion and polarization dependent loss are also discussed.