Boris B. Stefanov

A Performance Optimization Method for SOA-MZI Devices

We present a novel characterization method for semiconductor optical amplifier Mach-Zehnder interferometer (SOA-MZI) switches which combines a pump-probe measurement with an interferometer bias scan. This enables optimal bias identification and better understanding of switching dynamics.

Regeneration using an SOA-MZI in a 100-pass 10,000-km Recirculating Fiber Loop

We demonstrate all-optical regeneration in an SOA-MZI on a 10-Gb/s picosecond pulse train over 10,000 km in a 100-km recirculating loop. The bit-error rate after 100 loop-passes shows a 0.5-dB penalty.

Efficient performance optimization of SOA-MZI devices

We present a novel characterization method for semiconductor optical amplifier Mach-Zehnder interferometer (SOA-MZI) switches which combines a pump-probe measurement with an interferometer bias scan. In addition to a wealth of information on the switching dynamics for all operating points of the switch, we can create an extinction map to pinpoint regions of highest extinction for optimizing all-optical ultrafast switching. We experimentally verify the accuracy of this characterization method by performing a wavelength characterization at the optimal bias point and a nearby, non-optimal point. A 1-dB penalty was observed.

All-Optical Swapping of Digital Lightpath Labels

We describe a new method of swapping digital lightpath labels, by selective inversion of blocks of bits. All-optical label swapping is demonstrated using an SOA-MZI regenerator, optically switched from inverting to non-inverting operation.

Emerging applications of III/V components

III/V semiconductor devices have many application fields in optics. The compactness, wavelength agility, and integratability provide for a wide range of functionality. We will review the potential of these devices, with an emphasis on semiconductor optical amplifiers and integrated devices that contain them.

Simultaneous Data Regeneration and Digital Label Swapping in an SOA-MZI Device

We demonstrate all-optical regeneration of a 10-Gb/s data stream, with bit-error-rate improvement, simultaneously with digital label swapping, in a monolithically integrated semiconductor optical amplifier Mach–Zehnder interferometer device.

Efficient Performance Optimization for Ultrafast All-Optical Switching in SOA-MZI Devices

We present a simple method for optimization of ultrafast switching performance in semiconductor optical amplifier Mach-Zehnder interferometer (SOA-MZI) devices. By simultaneously measuring switching dynamics over all possible interferometer bias points, we acquire an extinction map which accurately identifies operating conditions for high extinction and optimal switching.

A new architecture for counterpropagation-based photonic regeneration and reshaping

This paper presents the honeycomb architecture for performing photonic regeneration and re-shaping in the counter-propagation. We demonstrate the suppression of undesired gain compression and cross-gain modulation effects along with significant improvement of input power sensitivity.