Digital self-coherent detection.

We review recent progresses on digital self-coherent detection of differential phase-shift keyed (DPSK) signal using orthogonal differential direct detection followed by high-speed analog-to-digital conversion and digital signal processing (DSP). Techniques such as data-aided multisymbol phase estimation for receiver sensitivity enhancement, unified detection scheme for multi-level DPSK signals, and optical field reconstruction are described. The availability of signal field information brings the possibility to compensate for some linear and nonlinear transmission impairments through further DSP.