Impact of linear mode coupling on nonlinear interactions in multi mode fibers with mode dependent losses

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Space division multiplexing offers very attractive approaches for increasing the data transport capacity per optical fiber in a way that future traffic growth in the internet can be supported in accordance with predicted demand. Especially mode division multiplexing shows the largest potential for capacity increase combined with promising potential to reduce the cost and energy per transported bit. Nonlinear interactions in the transmission fiber degrade the signal quality. Deploying mode division multiplexing in carrier networks seems feasible only, if the impact of nonlinear interactions can be predicted precisely and reliably.Linear mode coupling has a strong impact on the amount of signal degradation caused by nonlinear interactions. In case of strong coupling between modes, averaging significantly reduces the signal degradation due to nonlinear effects. Recent publications indicate a significant increase of the signal impairments resulting from nonlinear effects in the regime of medium coupling strength. As currently available fibers typically do not feature strong coupling between all modes, it has to be clarified, under which conditions the impact of nonlinear impairments increases how much. Reliable predictions concerning the transmission reach in multi mode fibers depending on their characteristics are only possible with more knowledge about the interplay of mode coupling and nonlinear impairments.