Semiconductor optical amplifier for detection function in subcarrier multiplexed systems

The paper demonstrates that in broad-band networks in-line semiconductor optical amplifiers that provides system gain can also be used as simultaneous transceiver. The SOA branching stages for bus configuration are studied and presented. We have made a small signal approximation using an equivalent circuit based the rate equations for laser amplifiers used for detection. The theory enables to explain the detection functionality, the optimal working state of the multifunctional SOA and analyses noise properties. The measurements support the calculations. So the SOA-transceivers are potentially useful in subcarrier multiplexed access system.