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An optical fiber amplifier is a fiber optic device used to amplify optical signals directly without conversion into electrical signals. Optical fiber transmission has revolutionized networking and communication systems. Multiple communication devices, like optical transmitters and receivers, are used in optical fiber transmission systems.
An optical fiber amplifier is used in transmitting data in fiber optic communication systems. Amplifiers are inserted at specific places to boost optical signals in a system where the signals are weak. This boost allows the signals to be successfully transmitted through the remaining cable length. In large networks, a long series of optical fiber amplifiers are placed in a sequence along the entire network link.
The first optical fiber amplifier, called an erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA), was invented in the late 1980s. An optical fiber amplifier consists of a low single mode fiber made of silica glass. A coupling pump light generates length gain at both fiber ends or in between locations.
Optical fiber amplifiers are categorized, based upon different physical mechanisms, as follows:
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