Impact of filter bandwidth on pulse generation in fiber lasers: a review

Filters, as one of the most commonly used and essential components in fiber lasers, play a critical role in controlling and shaping intra-cavity pulse evolution. We summarize a comprehensive review of recent advancements in the use of filters across various types of fiber lasers, focusing on the impact of filter bandwidth on determining the characteristics of the output pulses, such as pulse width, pulse energy, and spectrum. Furthermore, we explore the physical mechanism by which different types of filters influence pulse generation across diverse cavity structures and dispersion regions, elucidating their roles and applicable conditions during the pulse evolution. In addition, numerical simulations were employed to investigate the impact of varying filter bandwidth on the timescale of generated pulse durations. Finally, the role of the filter in fiber lasers is summarized, and future perspectives are discussed.