Semiconductor laser optical amplifiers for use in future fiber systems

Abstract

The application of semiconductor laser amplifiers to long-wavelength optical fiber systems is discussed. The basic equations defining laser amplifier characteristics are presented together with experimental results. Linear and nonlinear modes of operation are considered; the former includes use as an optical gain block, a linear repeater, and a preamplifier, while the latter includes use as a bistable element, an electrically controlled optical switch, and an injection-locked amplifier.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>