Optical amplifiers with age-based pump current limiters
US6583926B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 27, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jun 24, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04B2210/003
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Optical amplifiers and other optical network equipment for handling optical data signals in fiber-optic communications links are provided. Optical fiber that is pumped by laser diode pumps is used to provide optical gain. The laser diode pumps may be based on laser diode devices that do not have temperature controllers and integral back facet monitors. A control unit may be used to keep track of the age of the laser diode pumps. Information on the age of the pumps may be used to determine the maximum allowable drive current for driving the pumps. Information on the age of the pumps may also be used to select an appropriate drive current level during operation of the pumps.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.