Patent ID: 7881566
Filing Date: 2011-02-01
Classification: G01K

Abstract:
1. A laser source for use in a temperature sensing system based on optical time-domain reflectometry over an optical fiber sensor, the laser source comprising: a laser device and drive circuitry that cooperate to emit an optical pulse train at a characteristic wavelength in a range between 1050 nm and 1090 nm, wherein the drive circuitry is configured to adjust at least one pulse characteristic of the optical pulse train in response to at least one signal corresponding to manipulation of a user input device, and wherein the laser device comprises: a semiconductor laser; at least one resonant cavity fixed within a housing; and an optical fiber pigtail that is integral to the housing and that is coupled to the emission output of the resonant cavity; and an optical amplifier, operably coupled to said laser device, adapted to optically amplify said optical pulse train for output over the optical fiber sensor.