A fiber optic communication system for receiving an electronic digital
data signal and transmitting the same, comprising an optical signal
source adapted to receive the digital data signal and to produce a
frequency modulated optical signal from a directly modulated
semiconductor laser; an optical spectrum reshaper adapted to convert the
frequency modulated optical signal into an amplitude modulated optical
signal; and compensation apparatus for compensating for the adverse
effects of the thermal chirp normally induced in the frequency modulated
optical signal by modulating the semiconductor laser with the electronic
digital data signal.