Decision gate for all-optical data retiming using a semiconductor laser amplifier in a loop mirror configuration

Abstract

The authors report a new kind of decision gate based on a semiconductor laser amplifier (SLA) in a loop mirror (SLALOM) configuration. This decision gate was operated at 1 Gbit/s. It exhibits a contrast ratio of better than 20 dB, has no polarisation dependence for the data signals, and simultaneously enables all-optical wavelength conversion over a wavelength range of approximately 60 nm. As compared with the nonlinear Sagnac interferometer switch, it requires optical power for switching which is about three orders of magnitude lower. It is very compact and offers the advantage of possible integration on a chip.