Reduction of the Signal Nonlinear Distortion in CATV Systems applying Dual Mach-Zehnder Modulators

Summary: The paper deals with some investigations aimed at applying compensation techniques to reduce nonlinear signal distortion in the Mach-Zehnder modulator of HFC CATV systems. The frequency distribution of second-and third-order intermodulation products of N-channel transmission systems is shown. Models of dual-parallel and dual-cascade Mach-Zehnder modulators are suggested based on both the mathematical model of a conventional Mach-Zehnder modulator and the features of the CATV system itself, thus making it possible for the modulator parameters to be determined in a way to ensure CSO products cancellation and CTB products minimization. The dependence of the C/CTB parameter on the modulation index is studied for N-channel HFC CATV systems applying a dual-parallel or dual-cascade Mach-Zehnder modulator. Optical channels implementing dual-parallel or dual-cascade Mach-Zehnder modulator instead of a conventional one are compared and the possibilities to improve the RF signals' dynamic range are analyzed. Relations to determine the increase of the optical loss introduced by dual Mach-Zehnder modulators are suggested that help compare it with that caused by a conventional Mach-Zehnder modulator