Abstract

Polarization-maintaining fibers, which can preserve a state of polarization despite bends, twists, and environmental changes, are useful for coherent optical communication systems.^1,2 They are also useful for active transmission lines with optical nonlinear effects^3,4 as well as fiber-optic sensing systems.^5,6 Polarization-maintaining fibers for communication applications should emphasize design characteristics that are different from those of sensor fibers.

© 1987 Optical Society of America