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Automation of Mode Locking in a Nonlinear Polarization Rotation Fiber Laser through Output Polarization Measurements

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Polarization-rotation switch using picosecond pulses in GaAs.

A L Smirl, J Dubard, A G Cui

|September 15, 2009

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Area of Science:

Optics and Photonics
Materials Science
Semiconductor Physics

Background:

Nonlinear optical effects in semiconductors enable advanced photonic devices.
Gallium arsenide (GaAs) exhibits significant photorefractive and free-carrier nonlinearities.
Optical switching is crucial for high-speed communication and data processing.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate energy transfer mechanisms in GaAs for optical switching.
To design and demonstrate a high-contrast, high-speed optical switch.
To optimize switch performance by controlling pump-probe parameters.

Main Methods:

Utilizing picosecond laser pulses for pump and probe beams.
Employing a crossed polarizer setup to extinguish the probe beam.
Analyzing the p-polarized output component under varying pump conditions.

Main Results:

Demonstrated efficient energy transfer from a pump to a probe beam in GaAs.
Achieved high contrast ratios (on-off ratio up to 10,000) in the optical switch.
Observed high-speed switching capabilities due to nonlinearities.

Conclusions:

Photorefractive and free-carrier nonlinearities in GaAs can be harnessed for efficient optical switching.
The developed switch offers high contrast and speed, suitable for advanced photonic applications.
Optimization of pump-probe parameters allows for fine-tuning of switching performance.