Broadband wavelength conversions using broadband SOAs

Future wavelength-division-multiplexed (WDM) networks using a large number of wavelengths will need wavelength conversions between those wavelengths. Broadband wavelength conversions between 1300 nm and 1550 nm represent a milestone of such a capability. We report in this work such a broadband wavelength conversion using a broadband semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA), which is very compact in size. We have successfully fabricated broadband semiconductor gain materials using the selective area growth technique. This material has very flat and broad gain profiles of more than 250 nm. Broadband wavelength conversions from 1550 nm to 1300 nm have been demonstrated.