Methods Controlling Radiation Parameters of Mode-Locked All-Fiberized Lasers

Abstract

Fibre lasers are distinct in that their optical train is decoupled from the environment, especially in the all-fibre format. The attractive side of this decoupling is the simplicity of maintenance (no need to align the cavity or keep the optical elements clean), but the flip side of this is the difficulty one encounters when trying to control the output parameters. The components used in all-fibre laser cavities are usually different from those of free-space laser cavities and require new approaches to control. Essentially, an important task emerges, i.e., research and development of all-fibre laser components able to adjust their parameters (ideally by electronic means) in order to tune key parameters of the output radiation—wavelength, output power, and so on. The present review analyses the existing methods of control over the output parameters of mode-locked all-fibre lasers. It is further noted that a method relying on several independently pumped active media may be promising in this regard.