High-Precision Polarization Mode Dispersion Testing Solutions

Overview

Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD) Testing is critical in maintaining signal integrity in high-bit-rate and long-haul fiber optic systems. PMD occurs due to fiber imperfections that cause different polarization modes to travel at different speeds, degrading transmission performance. With next-gen data networks pushing toward 100G and beyond, PMD characterization is now essential for network validation, upgrade readiness, and compliance. At Fiber Optical Test, we deliver reliable and field-proven PMD testing tools that empower network engineers to detect and mitigate dispersion-related issues before they impact operations. Headquartered in Grand Chute, WI, Fiber Optical Test has become a trusted name across North America for innovative fiber optic testing solutions. Through ongoing product development, rigorous QA processes, and personalized support, we help customers enhance optical performance while reducing deployment risks and costs.

The Following are Our Advanced Offerings

In addition to offering products and systems developed by our own and other partners, we are proud to carry top-tier products and systems from our trusted partners, GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc., delivering reliable, high-quality technologies, integration and services you can count on. When appropriate, we have provided links to relevant products and systems of GAO TEK Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.

Core Components

Hardware

Polarization Scramblers and Controllers: Simulate real-world signal polarization effects to ensure accurate PMD readings.
Relevant Product Category: Wi-Fi HaLow End Devices – Enable controlled, low-power polarization variation simulations in lab and field setups.
High-Speed Detectors: Capture rapid pulse broadening to determine Differential Group Delay (DGD).
Relevant Product Category: Industrial & Asset Monitoring Sensors – Deliver real-time PMD metrics for critical infrastructure.
Broadband Light Sources: Provide stable, unpolarized illumination over wide spectral ranges.
Relevant Product Category: UHF RFID Readers, Tags & Accessories – Support broadband spectrum integrity in signal injection.
Onboard Processing Modules: Execute PMD calculations and store event logs locally.
Relevant Product Category: On Premise Edge (Edge Computing) – Offer localized data processing and immediate feedback in secure environments.

Software

Real-time PMD trace visualization with customizable parameters
Automated calibration and compensation routines
Integration with centralized monitoring systems
Export functions for all major data formats

Cloud Services

Centralized data storage and analytics dashboards
Remote device management and firmware updates
Integration with enterprise asset management systems

Key Features and Functionalities

Single- and dual-ended PMD measurement capability
Dynamic range up to 40 dB for extended-reach networks
Built-in validation for field, lab, and manufacturing environments
Adaptive filtering and noise rejection
Fast acquisition mode for live network monitoring

Integrations and Compatibility

Seamless integration with optical time-domain reflectometers (OTDRs)
Compatible with third-party test platforms and fiber databases
API-ready for integration into enterprise asset management software
Supports common fiber types, including legacy and modern G.652D, G.655, and G.657 variants

Benefits

Identifies PMD-induced performance degradation early
Enables compliant, high-capacity fiber deployment
Shortens troubleshooting time during service outages
Reduces rework and deployment costs
Assists in the long-term stability planning of fiber networks

Applications

40G/100G/400G Ethernet backbone networks
Long-haul DWDM systems
Metro and regional transport networks
Pre-deployment fiber validation
Academic and commercial R&D programs

Industries Served

Telecommunications and broadband carriers
Cloud and colocation data centers
Rail and intelligent transportation systems
Utilities and smart grid infrastructure
Government and defense communication sectors

Relevant U.S. & Canadian Industry Standards and Regulations

ANSI/TIA-568.3-D
ITU-T G.650.2
IEEE 802.3ba
GR-770
CSA T530-13

Fiber Infrastructure Expansion – Boston, MA

A major U.S. telecom carrier utilized Fiber Optical Test’s PMD testing platform during a 100G metro expansion. Our polarization scrambler and fast processing modules allowed the team to certify over 1,500 miles of fiber in half the expected time, helping them meet strict rollout deadlines.

Data Center Interconnect – Dallas, TX

A hyperscale data center operator adopted our PMD solution to ensure high-availability interconnects between campus buildings. The integration with their OTDRs allowed for simultaneous loss and PMD testing, improving accuracy and reducing total test time by 40%.

National Research Network – Calgary, Canada

A Canadian research consortium used our advanced PMD analysis tools to validate experimental transmission systems over legacy fiber routes. Our software’s adaptive trace filters helped visualize rare PMD spikes, contributing to groundbreaking findings in optical transmission.