Demonstration of two simultaneous independently controlled wavelength conversions using a novel dual-pump/dual-probe four wave mixing configuration in a semiconductor optical amplifier

In this paper we demonstrate the first, simultaneous, independently controllable wavelength conversion of two channels in a single semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) gain medium. Two independent four wave mixing (FWM) processes are combined in the same amplifier by utilizing different portions of the gain spectrum. Each pump/probe interaction generates gratings within the SOA using different carrier populations. This architecture behaves in many respects like an acousto-optical filter (AOTF) switch with composite acoustic gratings.