60 W, 10 GHz 4.5 ps pulse source at 1.5 μm

We demonstrate high power amplification of 4.5 ps pulses from a compact gain-switched laser diode. Average powers of 60 W are obtained after amplification in a double-clad Er/Yb co-doped fiber amplifier with pulse peak powers of 1.33 kW at laser repetition rates of 10 GHz.