What Is a Parametric Amplifier?
A parametric amplifier, often abbreviated as paramp, amplifies optical or microwave signals through a distinctive mechanism. This mechanism diverges from traditional amplification methods by leveraging the interaction between pump light and signal light within a nonlinear optical or microwave material. Such interactions lead to the signal light’s amplification, achieving high gains with minimal noise introduction.
Optical parametric amplifiers (OPAs) enhance optical communications by amplifying signals for applications like optical fiber communications and optical switching. Conversely, microwave parametric amplifiers (MPAs) are key in microwave technology applications, including radar transmission, where they amplify microwave signals.