A distributed model for continuous-wave erbium-doped fiber laser

A distributed model of a continuous-wave erbium-doped fiber laser is discussed. The model is based on two contra-propagated traveling laser waves, and includes inhomogeneous pumping, excited state absorption at the pump and the laser wavelengths, amplified spontaneous emission and radial distribution of populations of erbium levels. It is shown that excited state absorption is a main limiting factor to the laser's efficiency. Moreover, consideration of radial distributions of erbium levels' populations in the model reduces laser efficiency and decreases optimal reflection of the laser output coupler. The modeling results are in excellent agreement with the experimental study on the EDFL efficiency.