A multi-wavelength hybrid waveguide-fiber cavity 2.1 µm laser

Abstract

We present a readily configurable and scalable 2 µm multi-channel laser source that integrates a waveguide chip laser with an all-fiber cavity. We report here the first experimental realization and characterization of a two-channel holmium-doped zirconium fluoride glass waveguide array laser pumped by a single 1945 nm thulium fiber laser. Specific laser wavelengths are selected by fiber Bragg grating output couplers (2076.7 nm; 2074.4 nm), and single channel powers of >100 mW with slope efficiencies of up to 16 % are achieved. Design, assembly details, performance, channel scaling potential, and considerations for future work are proposed.