Wavelength-tunable polarization-independent demultiplexing in an all-fiber polarization diversity nonlinear optical-loop mirror

Summary form only given. Polarization-independent demultiplexing in the nonlinear optical-loop mirror has previously been achieved through the use of polarization-maintaining optical fiber (PMF) as the active nonlinear element in the loop or through the introduction of polarization diversity by the inclusion of a birefringent crystal in a loop with standard dispersion-shifted fiber. The high cost and limited availability of PMF places restrictions on its use, whereas, in the second case, the use of bulk optical components and the limited operating wavelength range make an all-fiber solution more favorable. In the loop mirror configuration used in this study the polarization diversity was obtained by splicing a short section of PMF into the loop instead of a birefringent crystal.