Instrumentation to Characterize Cache-Memory Buffers and Regenerators for Optically-Digital Communication and Processing at the Quantum Limit
Abstract
We have used an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) to characterize the fiber-optic cache-memory buffers. Prior to addition of the new OPO system, a home-built saturable-absorber mode locked erbium/ytterbium-fiber laser had been used in all our experiments. With the addition of a new OPO, we are able to remedy all prior deficiencies. The tunability represents the main advantage of the system to our research program, since the cache-memory buffers and regenerators that we are developing can be used at any wavelength. This is because the response of the fiber-optic parametric amplifier is wavelength independent; the fiber nonlinearity, which is responsible for the gain, exists at all wavelengths and is not restricted to the relatively narrow range of the erbium band (1.53-1.56 microns). Thus the OPO allows us to experiment in wavelength regions that have previously been inaccessible.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA389297
Entities
People
- Prem Kumar
Organizations
- Northwestern University