32-core erbium/ytterbium-doped multicore fiber amplifier for next generation space-division multiplexed transmission system

Abstract

We present a high-core-count 32-core multicore Erbium/Ytterbium-doped fiber amplifier (32c-MC-EYDFA) in a cladding pumped configuration. A side pumping technique is employed for ease of pump coupling in this monolithic all-fiber amplifier. A minimum gain of >17 dB and an average noise figure (NF) of 6.5 dB is obtained over all cores in the wavelength range 1534 nm-1561 nm for -4 dBm input signal power. The core-to-core variation for both amplifier gain and NF is measured to be <2 dB. The 32c-MC-EYDFA was then tested in a repeatered multicore fiber (MCF) loop system and transmission over distances >1850 km was successfully demonstrated. We also compare the total power consumption of our MC-EYDFAs with that of 32 conventional single core erbium doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) to illustrate the potential power saving benefits.