Challenges in the design and packaging of optical amplifiers for DWDM lightwave networks

The rapid and continuous improvement in performance of optical amplifiers that has taken place during the last three years is now facilitating new designs for dense wavelength-division-multiplexed (DWDM) lightwave systems and networks. This paper reviews the current status of device, component, and subsystem technology that is enabling widespread deployment of Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) in current DWDM lightwave transmission systems operating in the wavelength band 1525-1565 nm. Emerging technologies that will enable widespread optical amplifier deployment in the 1565-1650 nm, 1300 nm, and 1400 nm wavelength bands are presented. Potential applications of optical amplifiers in the datacom environment are discussed.