Publication Date: 6/1/2026

Event: Optics Express

Reference: 34(11):19588-19600, 2026

Authors: Enrico Miotto, Politecnico di Torino; Andrea D’Amico, NEC Laboratories America, Inc.; Stefano Straullu, LINKS Foundation; Toru Mano, NTT Corporation; Hideki Nishizawa, NTT Corporation; Vittorio Curri, Politecnico di Torino

Abstract: We derive the exact probability density function of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) impairment caused by polarization-dependent loss (PDL) in coherent optical systems. Using the hinge model for PDL statistics, we construct a sequence of variable transformations that yields the expression of the SNR probability density function by means of a sequence of nested recursive integrals. Monte Carlo simulations validate the analytical formulation assuming realistic PDL levels and link configurations, showing excellent agreement. The model accurately captures SNR variability introduced by cascaded PDL elements and provides a foundation for statistical margin assessment, digital twin modeling, and quality of transmission estimation in flexible, low-margin optical networks.

Publication Link: https://opg.optica.org/oe/fulltext.cfm?uri=oe-34-11-19588