Abstract
We study, theoretically and experimentally, intensity noise induced by double Rayleigh scattering in long optical fibers. The results of the theoretical model are compared to experimental results performed with a high-coherencelength laser with a frequency noise spectrum that is dominated by 1/fν noise. Excellent quantitative agreement between theoretical and experimental RF spectra were obtained for frequencies as low as 10 Hz and for fiber lengths between 4 and 45 km. Strong low-frequency intensity noise that is induced by 1/fν frequency noise of the laser may limit the performance of interferometric fiber optic sensors that require high-coherence-length lasers. The intensity noise due to double Rayleigh backscattering can be suppressed by reducing the coherence length of the laser. Therefore, the intensity noise has a complex and nonmonotonic dependence on the 1/fν frequency noise amplitude of the laser. Stimulated Brillouin scattering will add a significant noise for input powers greater than about 7 mW for a 30 km length fiber.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1265-1268 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Optics Letters |
Volume | 41 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 15 Mar 2016 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics