What is an optical amplifier?

An optical amplifier is defined as a device that boosts signal strength without needing to convert the signal to an electrical format. This characteristic is central to its operation, as optical amplifiers work directly with light signals to enhance their power or strength for transmission over long distances. By amplifying the optical signal, these devices help maintain signal integrity and quality in fiber optic communication systems.

The ability to amplify light signals directly is particularly advantageous because it eliminates the need for signal conversion, which can introduce additional complexities and potential errors. This feature also enables optical amplifiers to operate at high speeds and with minimal latency, making them essential components in modern telecommunication infrastructures.

For context, other options refer to functions that are not characteristic of optical amplifiers. Converting optical signals to electrical formats describes optical-to-electrical converters, filtering refers to devices that manage signal integrity by removing unwanted frequencies, and detectors assess signal quality rather than amplifying it.