Abstract
We propose a method for controlling modal gain in a multimode Erbium-doped fiber amplifier (MM-EDFA) by tuning the mode content of a multimode pump. By adjusting the powers and orientation of input pump modes, modal dependent gain can be tuned over a large dynamic range. Performance impacts due to excitation of undesired pump modes, mode coupling and macro-bending loss within the erbium-doped fiber are also investigated. The MM-EDFA may potentially be a key element for long haul mode-division multiplexed transmission.
Highlights
Over the past years, advances in optical coherent detection and signal processing have led to tremendous growth in the spectral efficiency achieved in optical fiber
We propose a method for controlling modal gain in a multimode Erbium-doped fiber amplifier (MM-erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA)) by tuning the mode content of a multimode pump
Two space-division multiplexing (SDM) schemes have been proposed. These are (i) multicore fibers (MCF), where a single strand of glass fiber contains a number of independent single- mode cores each capable of communicating optical signals [5,6]; and (ii) multimode fibers (MMF), where a single strand of fiber has one core with sufficiently large cross-section area to support a number of independent guiding modes [7–9]
Summary
Advances in optical coherent detection and signal processing have led to tremendous growth in the spectral efficiency achieved in optical fiber. Two space-division multiplexing (SDM) schemes have been proposed These are (i) multicore fibers (MCF), where a single strand of glass fiber contains a number of independent single- (or multi-) mode cores each capable of communicating optical signals [5,6]; and (ii) multimode fibers (MMF), where a single strand of fiber has one core with sufficiently large cross-section area to support a number of independent guiding modes [7–9]. Applications for MM-EDFAs have included high-powered lasers and free-space communications, where the multimode optical waveguide is essentially used in a “single-mode” manner, mode-dependent gain (MDG) is not critical [11,12]. In MDM transmission careful control over MDG is necessary to overcome mode-dependent loss (MDL) in the transmission fiber, and to ensure all signal modes are launched with optimal power maximizing the total system capacity.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
