Dispersion-tuned multiwavelength actively mode-locked fiber laser using a hybrid gain medium

We demonstrate a multiwavelength 10 GHz pulse source using a dispersion-tuned actively mode-locked fiber ring laser incorporated with a semiconductor optical amplifier and an erbium-doped fiber amplifier. Simultaneous seven-wavelength operation of the laser is obtained. The side-mode suppression of all wavelengths is above 30 dB. Smooth wavelength tuning is achieved over more than 12 nm by changing the modulation frequency or the length of the optical delay line. Pulse characteristics are almost constant over the entire tuning span. Wavelength spacing can also be varied from 0.9 to 10 nm by adjusting the dispersion of the cavity. These experimental observations agree well with theoretical analyses.