title: Simple multiwavelength time-division multiplexed light source for sensing applications.
abstract: We present a novel multiwavelength, time-division multiplexed laser design that continuously cycles through N spectrally narrow wavelengths, spending a specified, fixed time on each one. The design is based on a matched compressor/stretcher and a custom waveform generator applying modulation preferably to the gain medium. The realization discussed here utilizes a pulsed semiconductor optical amplifier in an all-fiber cavity containing fiber Bragg gratings. The laser cycles through 19 wavelengths in a 44 nm wide spectral band (1333-1377 nm) every 15 micros. The source contains no moving parts, offers high repetition rates, narrow spectral linewidths, and custom spectral profiling of the output.
authors.affiliation: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engine Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA. kraetschmer@wisc.edu
authors.forename: Thilo
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Kraetschmer
authors.forename: Daryl
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Dagel
authors.forename: Scott T
authors.initials: ST
authors.lastname: Sanders