Activation of optical amplifier in optical transmission path is preceded by test pulse transmission and evaluation of resultant flank profiles and pulse duration

摘要

An optical amplifier comprises an optical pump. This is controlled from an inactive- to a lasting active state with active pump element, only when functionality of the optical path has been ascertained. Should this be the case, then a continuous input signal to be amplified, is supplied to the optical amplifier. To first ascertain functionality, a pulsed test signal with constant period is transmitted. The test signal is evaluated in the optical amplifier, in respect of its rising flanks and pulse duration. The pump element of the optical amplifier is activated during the following period, or further following periods, taking into account the known on-interval of the pump element. Activation is held for such an interval that during the pulse interval, sufficient power is made available. The pump element is deactivated after expiry of the previously-determined ON-interval. An Independent claim is included for a corresponding optical amplifier.