Superfluorescent Fiber Sources for Fiber-Optic Gyroscopes

SDL, Inc. proposes to develop a high power, broadband superfluorescent fiber source at 1.3 um for use in high performance fiber optic gyroscopes. Output power exceeding 100 mW in a single mode fiber with a smooth spectral bandwidth greater than 20 nm and less than 5% spectral modulation is expected. This new source combines the unique high power and proven reliability of SDL laser diodes with newly emerging fiber technology. A future commercial superfluorescent fiber could become a low-cost source since the components are similar to those used in fiber amplifiers for telecommunications. This approach has inherently higher reliability than superluminescent diodes and is easier to scale to higher broadband power. Since the light is generated inside a single mode fiber, efficient coupling to fiber sensors is assured and the output can be easily distributed to remote locations via low loss fiber. High power superfluorescent sources will be useful for ultra-sensitive fiber optic gyroscopes used in space telescopes, satellites, space craft and terrestrial vehicles.