Open AccessUltrafast, atto-Joule switch using fiber-optic parametric amplifier operated in saturation
Author(s) -
Peter A. Andrekson,
H. Sunnerud,
Shunri Oda,
Takashi Noji,
Yang Jiang
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - Uncategorized
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.16.010956
Subject(s) - optics , ultrashort pulse , optical amplifier , optical fiber , amplifier , optical switch , optical parametric amplifier , optical burst switching , signal (programming language) , physics , optoelectronics , computer science , optical performance monitoring , wavelength division multiplexing , laser , cmos , wavelength , programming language
All-optical manipulation of signals carried by lightwaves is attractive because controlling the light directly can be more efficient, allows a multitude of signal formats, and can also prove most cost effective. We implemented a novel scheme for ultrafast optical switching using very small control energy that relies on the use of a saturated fiber-optic parametric amplifier. Approximately 19 aJ (150 photons) of control pulse energy was needed for 50% extinction of the signal which is three to four orders of magnitude smaller than in other all-optical switching demonstrations. This allows the consideration of novel practical approaches to implement all-optical switching devices and all-optical subsystems for telecommunications and other applications.