Tailored supercontinuum generation using genetic algorithm optimized Fourier domain pulse shaping.

We report the generation of a spectrally tailored supercontinuum using Fourier-domain pulse shaping of femtosecond pulses injected into a highly nonlinear fiber controlled by a genetic algorithm. User-selectable spectral enhancement is demonstrated over the 1550-2000-nm wavelength range, with the ability to both select a channel with target central wavelength and bandwidth in the range of 1-5 nm. The spectral enhancement factor relative to unshaped input pulses is typically ∼5-20 in the range 1550-1800 nm and increases for longer wavelengths, exceeding a factor of 160 around 2000 nm. We also demonstrate results where the genetic algorithm is applied to the enhancement of up to four spectral channels simultaneously.

Performance optimization in ultra-long Raman laser amplified 10×30 GBaud DP-QPSK transmission: balancing RIN and ASE noise.

We experimentally evaluate the influence of RIN transfer from pump to signal on the transmission performance of a 10 × 30 Gbaud DP-QPSK transmission system using a 2nd-order ultra-long Raman fiber laser amplifier, considering the effect of cavity front-end reflectivity and forward pump power ratio. The evolution of the Q-factors with distance up to maximum reach is monitored for a 10 × 30 Gbaud DP-QPSK transmission system with WDM channels between 1542.94 nm to 1550.12 nm. A maximum transmission distance of 6479 km is found for configurations with low forward pump powers corresponding to the optimal balance between RIN and ASE impairments.

Open-Cavity Spun Fiber Raman Lasers with Dual Polarization Output.

Random distributed feedback fiber Raman lasers, where the feedback mechanism is provided by Rayleigh backscattering, have attracted a good deal of attention since they were first introduced in 2010. Their simple and flexible design, combined with good lasing efficiency and beam quality properties, comparable to those of standard cavity lasers, have led to multiple applications, particularly in the fields of fiber sensing and optical communications. In spite of these advances, the polarization properties of random fiber Raman lasers, which can strongly affect their performance in both sensing and communications, have barely been explored so far. In this article we experimentally and theoretically study the polarization properties of different open-cavity laser designs, based on either standard transmission fibers or low polarization-mode-dispersion spun fibers. By using high-power, highly-polarized pumps, we demonstrate controllable polarization-pulling and simultaneous lasing at close wavelengths with different output polarization properties in random distributed feedback fiber Raman lasers. These results advance our understanding of the polarization dynamics in ultralong lasers, and pave the way to the design of novel fiber laser sources capable of polarization-sensitive sensing and distributed amplification.

Impact of input FBG reflectivity and forward pump power on RIN transfer in ultralong Raman laser amplifiers.

Relative intensity noise transfer from the pump to the signal in 2nd-order ultra-long Raman laser amplifiers for telecommunications is characterized numerically and experimentally. Our results showcase the need for careful adjustment of the front FBG reflectivity and the relative contribution of forward pump power, and their impact on performance. Finally, our analysis is verified through a 10 × 30 GBaud DP-QPSK transmission experiment, showing a large Q factor penalty associated with the combination of high forward pumping and high reflectivities.