Wavelength-transparent nonlinear optical gate based on self-seeded gain modulation in folded tandem-SOA

In this paper, an all-optical nonlinear gate employing a folded tandem-SOA structure is proposed. With a partial reflection mirror for the amplified signal, we achieve a self-seeded gain modulation effect in the folded tandem-SOA, thus eliminating an external saturating source required for the conventional tandem-SOA optical gate. The performance analysis of the proposed device as a 2R regenerator / logic gates (NOR) shows excellent compatibility with the conventional structure, but in a highly integrated form with added benefit of wavelength transparency over wide spectral bandwidth (>100nm). Studies also have been carried out to investigate optimum operation condition of the device as a function of input wavelength and signal input power.