Fiber-optic spectral-streak equalizer

Abstract

A spectral-streak equalizer was developed for use with an electronic streak camera to correct for material dispersion in optical fibers. Material dispersion occurs because different wavelengths of light travel at different speeds through glass fibers; the resulting difference in transit times broadens light pulses, which can lead to errors in certain scientific applications. This new instrument combines optical equalization and streak equalization techniques; it uses an array of optical fibers, as in the optical equalization technique, to partially compensate for the dispersion and uses the streak camera dynamics, as in the streak equalization technique, to complete the compensation. This paper examines the principles of equalization and compares several techniques, enumerates general and specific design considerations, outlines the calibration procedure, details efficiency estimates, describes testing techniques, gives calibration data and test results for spectral-streak equalizers currently in use, and draws conclusions from recent experience with these devices.