Abstract: An apparatus and method directed to testing and optimizing performance of an optical transmission system is disclosed, including at least one broadband dispersion compensation unit (DCU) or at least one depolarization device. The depolarization device may be used alone or in combination with the at least one broadband DCU. A method for optimizing performance of data channels in initial loading (IL) and full loading (FL) configurations of the optical transmission system is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method directed to testing and optimizing performance of an optical transmission system is disclosed, including at least one broadband dispersion compensation unit (DCU) or at least one depolarization device. The depolarization device may be used alone or in combination with the at least one broadband DCU. A method for optimizing performance of data channels in initial loading (IL) and full loading (FL) configurations of the optical transmission system is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method directed to testing and optimizing performance of an optical transmission system is disclosed, including at least one broadband dispersion compensation unit (DCU) or at least one depolarization device. The depolarization device may be used alone or in combination with the at least one broadband DCU. A method for optimizing performance of data channels in initial loading (IL) and full loading (FL) configurations of the optical transmission system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of repairing a slope-matched cable system that leaves the net chromatic dispersion of the system nominally unchanged comprises removing a portion of the slope-matched cable system that is faulted, either the cable or a repeater, and constructing a replacement cable portion from two N-P cable lengths having negative dispersion fibers and positive dispersion fibers and a P cable length having positive dispersion fibers. The N-P cable lengths are coupled on each side of the P cable length and the replacement cable portion is connected to the slope-matched cable where the faulted cable was removed. The method also accounts for the extra cable that necessarily has to be added during the repair and for the replacement of a faulted repeater.

Abstract: A method of repairing a slope-matched cable system that leaves the net chromatic dispersion of the system nominally unchanged comprises removing a portion of the slope-matched cable system that is faulted, either the cable or a repeater, and constructing a replacement cable portion from two N-P cable lengths having negative dispersion fibers and positive dispersion fibers and a P cable length having positive dispersion fibers. The N-P cable lengths are coupled on each side of the P cable length and the replacement cable portion is connected to the slope-matched cable where the faulted cable was removed. The method also accounts for the extra cable that necessarily has to be added during the repair and for the replacement of a faulted repeater.

Abstract: An OTDR provides both in-service and out-of-service measurement information for an optical transmission system with multiple repeaters. The repeaters include an optical high-loss loop back (HLLB) path and an OTDR path. The OTDR is coupled to the input lines of the optical transmission system via an optical coupler so that both traffic signals and test signals from the OTDR can be transmitted simultaneously. When the OTDR is providing in-service measurement information, test signals in the form of side-tone pulses are transmitted on the transmission system. The wavelengths of the test signals are sufficiently offset from the wavelength of the traffic signal so there is minimal interference between them. The level of the test signals is low relative to the traffic signal to also minimize interference. The OTDR filters out the traffic signal from the returned signal. The HLLB path through the amplifier pairs of each repeater is distinguishable in the filtered returned signal.

Abstract: A bale spike frame for lifting and carrying bales weighing 2,000 pounds or more. The frame members are tied together and reinforced at strategic locations by an integrating plate. The frame is a welded assembly made basically of tubular steel stock having a square cross section and also of some steel plate stock. It has elongated tubular top and bottom members joined to shorter length plate members at their ends to form a rectangular frame. A main bale spike mounting socket is provided in the top frame member and two tubular inserts are provided in the lower frame member for attaching bale stabilizing spikes. An intermediate frame member located directly below the socket extends perpendicularly between the top and bottom frame members and is butt welded thereto. Peripherally welded integrating plates extend from below the bottom end of the intermediate frame member over its front and rear faces and onto the top surface of the top frame member.

Abstract: Adjustable fitments for attaching any one of a variety of implements to the ends of the lifting and tilting arms of a tractor of the type normally used with front end loaders. Each fitment has a base member and a travelling member movably connected together by a rod assembly, such as a threaded rod assembly, whereby the spacing between the members can be adjusted to coincide with that of the mounting pins of the implement to be attached. Each of the members has a socket for receiving and holding one of a pair of vertically spaced horizontally disposed implement mounting pins. One of the sockets opens forwardly and the other socket opens upwardly. A manually operable latch mechanism is provided on the member which has the forwardly open socket to lock a corresponding implement pin in that socket and thus retain each pin of the pair in its respective socket.

Abstract: This invention relates to a combined vehicle-mounted carrier and dispenser for a cylindrical hay bale of substantial size and weight. An elongated finger-support member is pivotally mounted on the bed of a pick-up truck, a tractor hitch or other vehicle. The finger support member is T-shaped to retain a plurality of movable support fingers in cantilevered relation to penetrate and engage the bale. The finger support member is pivotally attached to a base member which is mounted on the truck bed. A power winch is located on said base member having a cable connected to the free end of the central arm member of the T-shaped finger support member. Tensioning means comprising a pair of aligned leaf springs is mounted between said pivotal finger support member and said fixed base member to maintain continuous tension on the cable and thus prevent any loose unwinding or unraveling of the cable on the power winch.