Multiwavelength pulse generator using time-lens compression

We demonstrate a novel method of generating a multiwavelength pulse train by use of time-lens compression. In addition. to pulse compression, this time lens simultaneously displaces the pulses according to their center wavelengths, resulting in a temporally evenly spaced multiwavelength pulse train. We further demonstrate a new aberration-correction technique based on the temporal analog of a spatial correction lens to improve the quality of the compressed pulses. Through the use of cw distributed-feedback lasers and, electro-optic phase modulators, the all-fiber system gallows complete tunability of temporal spacing, spectral profile, and repetition rate. (C) 2004 Optical Society of America.