RIN transfer measurement and modeling in dual-order Raman fiber amplifiers

A numerical analysis is presented that models the transfer of relative intensity noise (RIN) from the first- and second-order pump lasers to the signal radiation in dual-order Raman,fiber amplifiers. Measurements are presented of the first- and second-order RIN transfer functions for co- and counter-propagating fiber amplifiers. The second-order RIN transfer function is similar to that found in single-order Raman fiber amplifiers and the first-order transfer function is approximately 15 dB less than the second-order transfer function. The impact of the RIN transfer from the first- and second-order pump lasers to the signal radiation on the system performance is examined and estimates for the required pump laser RIN levels are presented.