Yb-doped fiber laser operating near EDFA absorption band

摘要

A Yb-doped fiber laser uses a homogeneously-broadened material. The disclosed laser design is particularly advantageous for operating the fiber laser between 970-980 nm and using this output as a pump for an Er- doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) having an absorption band between 970- 990 nm. Using a homogeneously-broadened host glass, for example alumino- germano-silicate or fluoride glass, significantly reduces the inefficiency that can result from the three-level nature of Yb-doped fiber laser transitions that are required for operating it at approximately 976 nm.