Optimization of wavelength tuning of erbium-doped fiber ring lasers

The dynamics of erbium-doped fiber ring lasers undergoing wavelength tuning is examined. The relaxation oscillations and mode build-up time are characterized. An all-optical damping technique which is capable of complete elimination of relaxation oscillations is analyzed, and measurements on a tunable erbium-doped fiber lasers are reported. An analytical solution is derived for the mode build-up time of tunable fiber lasers. Limiting parameters for the design of a high-speed tunable fiber laser are identified. An equalization technique for obtaining uniform switching speed is described.