Optical Amplifiers for Multi–Band Optical Transmission Systems

Opening new wavelength bands is the most economic step for further increasing the capacity of optical transmission links. Characteristics of different amplifier technologies for signal amplification in different wavelength bands are detailed. In particular, the suitability of these technologies for short-term and mid-term implementation is considered. An important criterion is the availability of qualified components, notably the required pump laser diodes. On this basis, solutions for the near-term and the mid-term are discussed.