Modeling and performance analysis of WDM transmission links employing semiconductor optical amplifiers

We theoretically explored the system limits of various single- and multichannel transmission links employing semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs). For this purpose, we developed an accurate model to describe the amplifier dynamics in the moderate and low saturation regimes. Our simulation results revealed the delicate balance among the level of saturation, the signal-to-noise ratio, and the amount of gain per amplifier required for optimum system performance. The modeling results have been confirmed by recent experimental work in this area.