In-line fiber optic memory and method of using same
US4815804A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 20, 1987 |
| Grant date | Mar 28, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S359/90
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A fiber optic recirculating memory comprises a splice-free length of optical fiber which forms a loop that is optically closed by means of a fiber optic coupler. The coupler couples an optical signal input pulse to the loop for circulation therein, and outputs a portion of the signal pulse on each circulation to provide a series of output pulses. A pump source is included to pump the fiber loop with a pump signal having sufficient intensity to cause stimulated Raman scattering in the fiber loop, and thereby cause amplification of the circulating signal pulse. The fiber characteristics, coupler characteristics, and pump power are selected to yield a Raman gain which compensates for the total round-trip losses in the fiber loop, so as to provide an output pulse train of constant amplitude pulses. The invention may be implemented utilizing either a standard coupler or a multiplexing coupler. The multiplexing coupler advantageously permits independent selection of the coupling ratios for the pump signal and signal pulse, thereby allowing these coupling ratios to be selected for minimum loop loss and maximum pumping efficiency.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.