Tunable multi-wavelength SOA based linear cavity fiber laser source for optical communications applications

We propose and demonstrate a simple compact, inexpensive, SOA-based, multi-wavelength tunable (C- to L-band) fiber laser. A C-band design SOA is used, yet multi-wavelength operation either at the C or L-band region is accomplished by exploiting the gain compression phenomena of the SOA. We demonstrate that the wavelength tunability can be achieved either by inserting a variable attenuator inside the cavity of the laser or by changing the reflectivity of the mirrors. We exploit two different kinds of loop mirrors, a Sagnac and a Lyot-Sagnac loop mirror, which perform multiple functions. Stable multi-wavelength operation is achieved at room temperature without temperature compensation techniques, with measured power and the wavelength stability within < ±0.5 dB and ±0.1 nm, respectively.