Efficient generation of wavelength-tunable single-mode pulses at 1.3 and 1.55 μm by a simplified approach of self-injection seeding

A simple configuration to generate tunable single-mode pulses by self-injection seeding of a gain-switched semiconductor laser is demonstrated. The key part of the setup consists of a highly dispersive fiber and a fiber mirror. The configuration shows improved stability and promise to operate at both 1.3 and 1.55 μm. The lasers at the respective wavelengths have been successively tuned over 13.43 and 12.81 nm with a side-mode suppression ratio >15 dB. Continuous access of wavelength with an enhanced tuning range is also achieved by combining both electrical and thermal control on the laser.