The status of fiber optics

Abstract

This paper gives a general review of the historical development and current status of the fiber optic industry. It encompasses such technical topics as erbium doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA), semiconductor lasers, dense wavelength division multiplexed (DWDM) systems, fiber networks, LiNbO based modulators, and dispersion compensation. In addition, it discussed the economic infrastructure of the fiber optics industry and the role played by basic materials and device development.