Patent ID: 6535331
Filing Date: 2003-03-18
Classification: H01S,H04B

Abstract:
A wideband optical amplifier having at least two bands of wavelength for amplifying an input optical signal of known wavelength, comprising:a first set of a first optical coupler, a first pump light source, and a first erbium doped optical fiber which is excited by a first pump light from the first pump light source; an optical switch for changing paths for an output signal of the first set; and a second set of a second optical coupler, a second pump light source, and a second erbium doped optical fiber which is excited by a second pump light from the second pump light source; wherein the first set amplifies a first optical signal with a first band of wavelength and produces the output signal at the optical switch, and wherein a combination of the first set and the second set series connected with one another through the optical switch amplifies a second optical signal with a second band of wavelength; and wherein either the first optical signal or the second optical signal is commonly supplied to an input terminal of the first set.