Abstract

We have recently reported a theoretical model [1,2] for subpicosecond pulse amplification in semiconductor laser amplifiers (SLA). The model includes a variety of dispersive and nonlinear effects, and has been succesful in quantitatively describing [1,2] experimental results of spectral distortions, as well as time domain gain dynamics, during subpicosecond strong signal amplification in an SLA. Here, we present the results of two different experiments, each on a different device, and apply the theoretical model to explain the results. The purpose is not only to test the behavior of the devices with regard especially to the effects of fast nonlinearities and gain dispersion, but also to test the general applicability of the model and its range of validity. The model consists of a nonlinear propagation equation with auxiliary equations describing the slow and fast gain dynamics self-phase modulation and gain dispersion, as given in [1,2].

© 1995 Optical Society of America