Wavelength selection and tuning by optical control in a two-segment erbium-doped fiber laser

Abstract
A new method for controlling the wavelength of an Er/sup 3+/-doped fiber laser is proposed and demonstrated. Using two sections of dissimilar Er/sup 3+/-doped fiber and pumping them separately, switching among several distinct lasing wavelengths has been observed. Wavelength tuning over a range of 8 nm has also been achieved.