Parametric wavelength conversion with bidirectional utilization of a multiple QPM device

A configuration for wavelength conversion and optical amplification by parametric interaction using a nonlinear optical device is proposed. It enables pump generation through second harmonic generation (SHG), difference frequency generation (DFG), and optical parametric amplification (OPA) using a multiple-quasi-phase-matched (M-QPM) LiNbO₃ waveguide in a bidirectional manner. Wavelength conversion for the 1.4-1.6 µm band is experimentally demonstrated. In addition, it is demonstrated that the parametric gain band can be changed using various detunings between the pump and QPM wavelengths used for the DFG/OPA process. The proposed method would be useful for enabling high-capacity optical transmission outside the 1550-nm band.