Bit-rate-variable and order-switchable optical multiplexing of high-speed pseudorandom bit sequence using optical delays

We experimentally demonstrate high-speed optical pseudorandom bit sequence (PRBS) multiplexing with coarse and fine bit-rate tuning capability and a switchable order using optical delays. Data multiplexing of 80 Gbit/s and 160 Gbit/s is shown, each with a tunable rate using a conversion/dispersion-based continuously tunable optical delay and tunable PRBS order with large switchable fiber delays. A 7% bit-rate tunability, i.e., 80-85.6 Gbit/s and 160-171.2 Gbit/s, is shown for both 27 - 1 and 215 - 1 PRBS. The rf spectra before and after multiplexing are measured in each case and show a suppression ratio of >30 dB, exhibiting the expected PRBS spectral characteristics. © 2010 Optical Society of America.