title: Quantum-limited timing jitter characterization of mode-locked lasers by asynchronous optical sampling.
abstract: We demonstrate a novel time domain timing jitter characterization method for ultra-low noise mode-locked lasers. An asynchronous optical sampling (ASOPS) technique is employed, allowing timing jitter statistics on a magnified timescale. As a result, sub femtosecond period jitter of an optical pulse train can be readily accessible to slow detectors and electronics (~100 MHz). The concept is applied to determine the quantum-limited timing jitter for a passively mode-locked Er-fiber laser. Period jitter histogram is acquired following an eye diagram analysis routinely used in electronics. The identified diffusion constant for pulse timing agrees well with analytical solution of perturbed master equation.
authors.forename: Haosen
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Shi
authors.forename: Youjian
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Song
authors.forename: JiaHe
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Yu
authors.forename: Runmin
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: Minglie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hu
authors.forename: Chingyue
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Wang