LAUSR

To describe ultrashort pulse amplification in semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs), several models have been developed that calculate the amplified output pulse as a function of the input. Because of the many processes at play in SOAs (band filling, carrier heating, spectral hole burning, two-photon absorption, and the associated free-carrier absorption), it is challenging to predict which input is needed to generate a targeted output. In this Letter, we construct a generic inverse SOA model that calculates the required input pulse including its shape and phase to obtain a desired output. This inverse model will enable a more efficient and well-targeted design of SOA-based photonic systems, while also allowing better quality and performance control.