Multiple, polarization diverse, idler wave generation in fibers from competing four-wave mixing processes

We report on a theoretical and experimental characterization of polarization-dependent four-wave mixing processes in highly nonlinear optical fibers. Two or three idler waves at different polarizations are experimentally generated in an optical fiber from the propagation of two wavelength-detuned, orthogonally-polarized pumps and a signal. Each idler wave results from a different four-wave mixing process involving the signal and one or both pumps. Orthogonally-polarized idler waves are demultiplexed in a polarization beam splitter with a cross-polarization suppression of over 17 dB. The parametric process equations for this system are analytically solved and the efficiencies of the competing processes analyzed for the small pump detunings and identical pump powers. This experimental setup can be used in telecommunication systems for producing and selectively rerouting various copies of a data signal.