arXiv:0711.4172 · Journal of Physics B Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics

Broadband optical delay with a large dynamic range using atomic dispersion

Michael Ross Vanner, R J McLean, P Hannaford, A M Akulshin

Published Feb 26, 2008• 23 citations

Abstract

We report on a tunable all-optical delay line for pulses with optical frequency within the Rb D 2 absorption line. Using frequency tuning between absorption components from different isotopes, pulses of 10 ns duration are delayed in a 10 cm hot vapour cell by up to 40 ns while the transmission remains above 10%. The use of two isotopes allows the delay to be increased or decreased by optical pumping with a second laser, producing rapid tuning over a range of more than 40% of the initial delay at 110 °C. We investigate the frequency and intensity ranges in which this delay line can be realized. Our observations are in good agreement with a numerical model of the system.

DOI: 10.1088/0953-4075/41/5/051004

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