Fast wavelength conversion to generate 560 nm fluorescence for data transmission in polymer optical fibres

Abstract

The use of a fluorescent fibre (15.5 mm in length) pumped in a forward direction with a 520 nm emitting LED for fast wavelength conversion to 560 nm is reported. In addition to the fact that this wavelength matches the attenuation minima of poly-methyl-methacrylate polymer optical fibres (POFs), the presented results show an external conversion efficiency of 4.7% and a bandwidth of 52.5 MHz. The device is a simple, inexpensive, compact, eye-safe and lightweight optical source at 560 nm. It can be suitable for single-channel 'long-distance' (>400 m) or WDM-based links using POFs, presenting a bandwidth-distance product of 50-100 MHz/100 m.