Optical bistability and multistability via quantum interference in an Er3+-doped optical fiber

The optical bistability and multistability in an Er3+-doped ZrF4–BaF2–LaF3–AlF3–NaF optical fiber inside a ring cavity are investigated. The underlying mechanism shows some new characteristics that other schemes do not have. Thus, it may provide some new possibilities for technological applications in optoelectronics and quantum information science.