Abstract

We demonstrate a Raman-pumped Fourier-domain mode-locked (FDML) fiber laser and optical coherence tomography imaging with this source. The wavelength sweep range of only $30\mathrm{nm}$ centered around $1550\mathrm{nm}$ results in limited axial resolution, hence a nonbiological sample is imaged. An output power of $1.9\mathrm{mW}$ was achieved at a sweep rate of $66\mathrm{kHz}$ and a maximum ranging depth of $\sim 2.5\mathrm{cm}$. Roll-off characteristics are found to be similar to FDML lasers with semiconductor optical amplifiers as gain media. The application of Raman gain also enables unperturbed cavity ring-down experiments in FDML lasers for the first time, providing direct access to the photon lifetime in the laser cavity. Good agreement with nonswept cw operation is proof of the stationary operation of FDML lasers.

© 2008 Optical Society of America

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