Noise-induced nonlinear frequency chirping in χ(3) nonlinear media.

We theoretically and experimentally analyze the dominant impairment mechanisms affecting the fidelity of optical phase in parametric amplifiers and converters in media characterized by third-order (Kerr) optical nonlinearity. The critical role of narrow-band pump filtering in parametric mixers is quantified with respect to frequency stability of amplified and converted waves. The analysis is generally applicable to all four-photon devices used to generate new frequencies or translate spectral bands.