Experimental observation of autosoliton propagation in a dispersion-managed system guided by nonlinear optical loop mirrors.

Observation of autosoliton propagation in a dispersion-managed optical transmission system controlled by in-line nonlinear fiber loop switches is reported for what is believed to be the first time. The system is based on a strong dispersion map with large amplifier spacing. Operation at transmission rates of 10 and 40 Gbits/s is demonstrated. (C) 2004 Optical Society of America.