Laser dynamics of asynchronous rational harmonic mode-locked fiber soliton lasers

Laser dynamics of asynchronous rational harmonic mode-locked (ARHM) fiber soliton lasers are investigated in detail. In particular, based on the unique laser dynamics of asynchronous mode-locking, we have developed a new method for determining the effective active modulation strength in situ for ARHM lasers. By measuring the magnitudes of the slowly oscillating pulse timing position and central frequency, the effective phase modulation strength at the multiplication frequency of rational harmonic mode-locking can be accurately inferred. The method can be a very useful tool for developing ARHM fiber lasers. (paper)