A novel kind of programmable 3(n) feed-forward optical fiber true delay line based on SOA.

A new kind of 3(n) feed-forward programmable optical fiber true delay line was proposed. Theoretical analysis was presented on its delay performance and expandability. Experimental demonstration was given to show the implementation of such delay lines using SOAs and Farady rotation mirrors. Delay step as small as 0.5 ps with precision of about 0.03 ps was achieved. Measurement was performed to verify the feasibility and results are given.