Amplitude modulation using a nonlinear optical loop mirror
By: David S. Grennek
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1998
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 47
Description: The nonlinear optical loop mirror (NOLM) configuration has been studied extensively within the context of      pulsed and/or quasi-CW laser sources. As such, the NOLM holds great promise in the areas of soliton      switching, pulse compression and high data rate communications. However, comparatively little research has      been done with CW sources. In this investigation, the theoretical properties of the NOLM are explored      experimentally with the aid of a CW Nd:YAG laser operating in the infrared region. Specifically, the nonlinear      effects of self-phase modulation are characterized. For a beam of sufficient intensity, its optical path through the      fiber may be altered due to the dependence of the phase on intensity. Thus, two coherent beams of light of      differing intensity can be made to interfere constructively or destructively even though the physical paths are      identical. In the NOLM configuration, the potential result is an amplitude modulated output beam exhibiting a      repetition rate several orders of magnitude greater than that of the input. Two dissimilar single-mode fibers as      well as two custom-built fixed-ratio asymmetric fiberoptic couplers are utilized in the experiment. Correlation      with theory is emphasized and follow-on projects are discussed.
Notes: "December 1998."

Thesis advisor(s): Andres Larraza, H. Sarma Lakkaraju.

Thesis (M.S. in Applied Physics) Naval Postgraduate School, December 1998.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 41)

Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.

Also available online.

Mode of access: World Wide Web.

System Requirements: Adobe Acrobat reader.

US Navy (USN) author.

dk/dk cc:9116 02/03/99