Polarization mapping of a dual-wavelength passively mode-locked fiber ring laser.

We report an extensive experimental study of a dual-wavelength (1530 and 1560 nm) passively mode-locked fiber laser in a ring configuration with strict control of the polarization state. Different types of laser operation are identified, which are classified into ten mode locking regimes (solitons-noise-like pulsing, solitons–solitons, solitons-CW, bound solitons-CW, solitons (1530 nm), CW-solitons, CW-bound solitons, Q-switched-like noise-like pulsing, steady noise-like pulsing at 1530 nm and intermittent mode locking), which are mapped in terms of the polarization settings (ellipticity and azimuth). The resulting map establishes, in a clear and repeatable way, the relation existing between each mode locking regime and the polarization adjustment, which allows controlling at the same time intracavity losses, the gain profile, the cavity spectral transfer function, as well as the nonlinear switching characteristic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]