An optical distribution system for providing CATV services to approximately 30,000 subscribers using a fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC) system has been developed. This system distributes the optical signal to 128 paths for 90 carriers with a hybrid 150 channel signal which accommodates 60 AM signals and 90 16 QAM signals to provide both conventional service and future services. The development of low distortion and low chirp MQW 1.55 mm DFB-LD is discussed and the zero distortion conditions for optical fiber amplifiers are verified in the investigation of the mare parameters in the design of the system. To satisfy the system specifications, the signal wavelength is thorn to be 1561 nm, the input optical power is set to 6 dBm, and a two-stage optical fiber amplifier structure is used. The results of transmission tests are shown to verify the performance of the system. Lastly, the potential for expansion of the optical distribution system is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]