Stability and bandwidth enhancement of difference frequency generation based wavelength conversion by pump detuning

Summary form only given. Difference frequency generation (DFG) is an attractive method for wavelength conversion in wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical networks. DFG-based devices have been demonstrated successfully in quasi-phase-matched (QPM) periodically poled LiNbO/sub 3/ waveguides. In this paper, we address and solve the instability problem by detuning the pump from the degenerate phase-matching wavelength. We also discuss the possibility of further enhancing the device stability and bandwidth using nonuniform QPM structures.