Fiber optic signal amplifier using thermoelectric power generation
A remote fiber optic signal amplifier for use as a repeater/amplifier, such as in transoceanic communications, powered by a Pu{sub 238} or Sr{sub 90} thermoelectric generator. The amplifier comprises a unit with connections on the receiving and sending sides of the communications system, and an erbium-doped fiber amplifier connecting each sending fiber to each receiving fiber. The thermoelectric generator, preferably a Pu{sub 238} or Sr{sub 90} thermoelectric generator delivers power to the amplifiers through a regulator. The heat exchange surfaces of the thermoelectric generator are made of materials resistant to corrosion and biological growth and are directly exposed to the outside, such as the ocean water in transoceanic communications. 2 figs.
- Issue Date:
- OSTI Identifier:
- 46322
- Assignee:
- Dept. of Energy, Washington, DC (United States) PTO; SCA: 300304; 070300; PA: EDB-95:077287; SN: 95001384531
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5,408,356/A/
- Application Number:
- PAN: 8-100,153
- Contract Number:
- AC09-89SR18035
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: 18 Apr 1995
- Research Org:
- Westinghouse Savannah River Co
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
- Subject:
- 30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION; 07 ISOTOPE AND RADIATION SOURCE TECHNOLOGY; AMPLIFIERS; RADIOISOTOPE BATTERIES; COMMUNICATIONS; THERMOELECTRIC GENERATORS; PLUTONIUM 238; STRONTIUM 90; POWER SUPPLIES; CORROSION RESISTANCE; REMOTE AREAS; NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems