Optical waveguide amplifier using a circulator and an optical signal reflective surface and method employing same

A method for optically amplifying an input optical signal, the method comprising:

• providing a waveguide, the waveguide comprising a linear core having a first end for receiving the input optical signal and for outputting an amplified signal and a second end;
• providing an optical pump signal to the waveguide to facilitate amplification of the input optical signal into the amplified optical signal as the input optical signal travels through the linear core;
• positioning a reflective surface at the second end of the waveguide to reflect the input optical signal back through the linear core and out the first end of said waveguide;
• and
• providing a means for receiving the amplified optical signal exiting the first end of the waveguide.

A method for optically amplifying an input optical signal, the method comprising:

• applying the input optical signal to a waveguide, the waveguide comprising a linear core having a first end for receiving the input optical signal and for outputting an amplified signal and a second end;
• generating an optical pump signal;
• applying the optical pump signal to the waveguide to facilitate amplification of the input optical signal into the amplified optical signal as the input optical signal travels through the linear core;
• reflecting the input optical signal at the second end of the waveguide back through the linear core towards the first end of said waveguide;
• and
• receiving the amplified optical signal exiting the first end of the waveguide.