Nonlinear amplifying loop mirror

A novel device arrangement for all-optical switching that permits efficient exploitation of waveguide nonlinearities is discussed. It is based on a long optical fiber loop mirror with an integral short asymmetrically located optical amplifier. The device performance is demonstrated by using a Nd(3+)-doped fiber amplifier. Switching is obtained for peak signal powers of less than 1 W and an amplifier pump power of 10 mW.