Dual-wavelength noise-like pulse generation in passively mode-locked all-fiber laser based on MMI effect

We report on the generation of dual-wavelength noise-like pulse (NLP) from a passively mode-locked all-fiber laser based on multimode interference (MMI) effect. The theory to evaluate and design transmission spectrum of MMI filter is analyzed. A homemade MMI filter was employed in an Er-doped fiber ring laser with NPE configuration and dual-wavelength NLP at 1530 and 1600 nm was obtained with 3-dB bandwidth of 18.1 and 41.9 nm, respectively. The output had a signal-to-noise ratio higher than 35 dB and can achieve self-started operation.