Equilibrium mode distribution and steady-state distribution in 100-400 μm core step-index silica optical fibers

Using the power flow equation, the state of mode coupling in 100-400 mu m core step-index silica optical fibers is investigated in this article. Results show the coupling length L-c at which the equilibrium mode distribution is achieved and the length z(s) of the fiber required for achieving the steady-state mode distribution. Functional dependences of these lengths on the core radius and wavelength are also given. Results agree well with those obtained using a long-established calculation method. Since large core silica optical fibers are used at short distances (usually at lengths of up to 10 m), the light they transmit is at the stage of coupling that is far from the equilibrium and steady-state mode distributions. (C) 2011 Optical Society of America