The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for multiplexing
in optical fiber communications. The subject invention relates to a
method and apparatus for spatial domain modulation in optical
wavelengths. In a specific embodiment, the subject invention relates to a
spatial domain multiplexer (SDM) for use with an optical fiber.
Preferably, the input channels coupled into the fiber optic cable include
collimated laser beams. The techniques of the subject invention can be
utilized with single mode and multi mode waveguide structures, for
example, single mode and multi mode optical fibers. The subject invention
is applicable to step index optical fiber and to graded index optical
fiber. Applications of the subject technology can include secure data
links, for example, which can modulate data such that if the data is
intercepted, the data cannot be interpreted. The subject methods and
apparatus can also be used in conjunction with other multiplexing
techniques such as time-domain multiplexing.