Evolution and stability of pulse regimes in SESAM-mode-locked femtosecond fiber lasers

One of the key technologies exploited in femtosecond lasers is the application of semiconductor saturable absorber mirrors (SESAMs). The SESAM technology is based on bandgap engineering and epitaxial growth and has many advantages compared to other methods. From the laser design view point it is important to know how SESAM parameters affect properties of steady-state pulses and overall laser system performance. We have performed here a massive optimization of the laser system including total gain, cavity dispersion, saturable absorber recovery time and saturation energy.