Semi-Analytical Modelling of Linear Mode Coupling in Few-Mode Fibers

This paper reviews and extends a method for the semi-analytical solution of the coupled linear differential equations that describe the linear mode coupling arising in few-mode fibers due to waveguide imperfections. The semi-analytical solutions obtained proved to be accurate when compared to numerical solution methods. These solutions were integrated into a multisection model with split-steps for mode dispersion and mode coupling. Simulations using this model matched the analytical predictions for the statistics of group-delays in few-mode fiber links, considering different coupling regimes with and without mode delay management.