Mechanism for stable, ultra-flat multiwavelength operation in erbium-doped fiber lasers employing intensity-dependent loss

Xinhuan Feng, Chao Lu, Hwa Yaw Tam, Ping Kong Alexander Wai, D. Y. Tang, Bai Ou Guan

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

30 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We study a mechanism to attain stable and ultra-flat multiwavelength oscillations in erbium-doped fiber lasers (EDFLs). The key concept is to introduce intensity-dependent loss (IDL) into the laser cavity, which can effectively suppress the mode competition in the homogeneously broadened gain medium and ensure a uniform power distribution over wavelengths via the gain-clamping effect. The technique was successfully demonstrated by employing a nonlinear optical loop mirror (NOLM) in erbium-doped fiber laser cavity. Based on the experimental results, further experimental investigation and theoretical analysis are carried out to show the effectiveness of the gain-clamping mechanism in realizing the multiwavelength operation of the EDFL.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)74-77
Number of pages4
JournalOptics and Laser Technology
Volume44
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2012

Keywords

  • Gain-clamping effect
  • Intensity-dependent loss (IDL)
  • Multiwavelength erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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