Broadband silica-based thulium doped fiber amplifier employing multi-wavelength pumping

A multi-wavelength pumped thulium doped fiber amplifier is investigated to extend the spectral gain coverage of the amplifier in the 1.7-1.9μm wavelength range. Through the use of a combination of 791 nm, 1240 nm, and 1560 nm laser diode pumping, the amplifier gain can be improved significantly and overall gain bandwidth enhancement of ~47% as compared to single-wavelength pumping achieved. A nominal gain of 15 dB is achieved over a bandwidth of more than 250 nm spanning from 1700 to 1950 nm with a maximum gain of 29 dB and a noise figure of less than 5 dB.