Digital self-coherent detection

We review recent progresses on digital self-coherent detection of differential phase-shift keyed (DPSK) signal using orthogonal differential direct detection followed by high-speed analog-to-digital conversion and digital signal processing (DSP). Techniques such as data-aided multi-symbol phase estimation for receiver sensitivity enhancement, unified detection scheme for multi-level DPSK signals, and optical field reconstruction are described. The availability of signal field information brings the possibility to compensate for some linear and nonlinear transmission impairments through further DSP. An adaptive DSP algorithm for simultaneous electronic polarization de-multiplexing and polarization-mode dispersion compensation is also presented. (c) 2008 Optical Society of America.