Optical amplifier for bi-directional WDM optical communications systems

摘要

In accordance with the invention, an amplifier for a bi-directional WDM optical system comprises an arrangement of multiplexers with unidirectional arms disposed between a pair of bi-directional amplification stages. The multiplexer arrangement combines and separates wavelengths in both directions and reduces the effects of Rayleigh backscattering and amplified spontaneous emission.