Space-division multiplexing for fiber-wireless communications

We envision the application of optical Space-division Multiplexing (SDM) to the next generation fiber-wireless communications as a firm candidate to increase the end user capacity and provide adaptive radiofrequency-photonic interfaces. This approach relies on the concept of fiber-distributed signal processing, where the SDM fiber provides not only radio access distribution but also broadband microwave photonics signal processing. In particular, we present two different SDM fiber technologies: dispersion-engineered heterogeneous multicore fiber links and multicavity devices built upon the selective inscription of gratings in homogeneous multicore fibers.