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Polarization mode dispersion
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<p>Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) is a form of <a href="/facts/Modal_dispersion/Cty1J1Kr">modal dispersion</a> where two different <a href="/facts/Polarization_(waves)/fP33m0eD">polarizations</a> of light in a <a href="/facts/Waveguide/tJS9Y0GH">waveguide</a>, which normally travel at the same speed, travel at different speeds due to random imperfections and asymmetries, causing random spreading of <a href="/facts/Optical_pulses/V8joGdvF">optical pulses</a>. Unless it is compensated, which is difficult, this ultimately limits the rate at which data can be transmitted over a fiber. </p>