Using MZIs for Optical PSBT Transmissions: Requirements for Thermal Stabilization

In this paper, we discuss the quantification of Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) thermal stabilization which is needed in optical phase shaped binary transmission (PSBT) links. Considering the thermo-optic and thermal expansion effects, we revisit the analytical expression for the thermal drift (GHz/$^{\circ}C$) of the MZI center frequency (denoted here by the 'MZI spectral drift'). An MZI is then used in an experimental transmission system using the optical PSBT format. We study the effect of spectral MZI drift by using a thermally stabilized interferometer and applying a frequency shift to the optical carrier. By using the thermal drift coefficient of the MZI, we find that to ensure low bit error rate fluctuations due to the MZI drift, the thermal stabilization of the device must have an accuracy of $0.5^{\circ}C$.