This Recommendation contains the parameters and definitions of devices that provide adaptive chromatic dispersion compensation, necessary for the transmission and detection of optical signals in a system in which dynamic variation of chromatic dispersion is observed. The adaptive dispersion compensation devices described include single-channel and multi-channel applications. This Recommendation defines the essential requirements and parameters of adaptive dispersion compensators (ADCs). Additionally, a distinction is made between line adaptive dispersion compensators, and transmitters and receivers with adaptive dispersion compensation that may include electrical or optical methods of chromatic dispersion compensation.