Abstract

Wavelength conversion is recognized as an important function in future fiber networks. We have demonstrated broad-band wavelength conversion over spans as large as 27 nm [1]. Our approach uses ultrafast four-wave mixing dynamics associated with intraband relaxation mechanisms in semiconductor traveling-wave amplifiers (TWA’s). In this paper we present new results showing conversion over wavelength spans as large as 65 nm. Over this range, conversion within 7 nm occurs with amplification and the conversion efficiency remains higher than 14% for shifts as large as 24 nm. We also verify that wavelength conversion efficiency varies as the cube of TWA single pass gain.

© 1994 Optical Society of America