Band selection in broadband loop ASE source using seed signal injection

Band selection in a broadband (C+L) loop amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) source using C-band seed signal injection is experimentally demonstrated and compared with conventional double-pass bidirectionally pumped ASE source designs. Significant suppression in C-band and increase in L-band ASE powers were observed for increasing C-band seed signal power. This enables C-, C+L-, and L-band operations in the loop ASE source with the seed signal power of less than -12 dBm, between -12 and -3 dBm, and higher than -3 dBm, respectively.