Dynamic operation of a three-port, integrated Mach-Zehnder wavelength converter

Wavelength conversion using semiconductor optical amplifiers monolithically integrated in a three-part Mach-Zehnder configuration is achieved for data rates of 1 and 2.5 Gb/s. The three-port configuration allows efficient use of pump signal power, as well as counter-propagation of pump and converted signals, eliminating the need for a filter. Operation of the device at 5 Gb/s in a two-port configuration is also achieved. Dynamic extinction ratios larger than 13 dB, as well as both data-inverting and noninverting operation are demonstrated.<
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