Oscillation spectral range of Yb-doped fiber lasers

In this brief review we consider the main factors determining the oscillation spectral range of cladding-pumped ytterbium-doped fiber lasers (YDFLs) and the results obtained for lasers emitting at various wavelengths. Like erbium-doped fiber amplifiers we suggest dividing the oscillation spectral range of YDFLs into three bands, namely: convenient (C-band), short (S-band), and long (L-band). Polymer-coated double-clad fibers with the inner cladding having a size of more than 100 mu m allows one to get efficient operation in the convenient range (C-band): 1060 - 1130 nm. To get an oscillation within the S-band (976 - 980 nm and 1020 - 1060 nm) it is necessary to use active fibers with a small square of the inner cladding. Heating of the active fiber gives the possibility to get lasing within the L-band lambda > 1130 nm). Another way to get an emission in this spectral range is by the application of long-wave pumping by a C-band YDFL. Also, we indicate some features that require further study.