Extension and validation of the GN model for non-linear interference to uncompensated links using Raman amplification

We show the extension of the Gaussian Noise model, which describes non-linear propagation in uncompensated links of multilevel modulation formats, to systems using Raman amplification. We successfully validate the analytical results by comparison with numerical simulations of Nyquist-WDM PM-16QAM channels transmission over multi-span uncompensated links made of a single fiber type and using hybrid EDFA/Raman amplification with counter-propagating pumps. We analyze two typical high- and low-dispersion fiber types. We show that Raman amplification always induces a limited non-linear interference enhancement compared to the dominant ASE noise reduction.