Abstract: A method for creating nonuniform grating strengths within fiber optic includes exposing photosensitive fiber optic material to an optical source for various periods of time through a mask. As the fiber optic material is exposed, the grating strength of the fiber changes. By linearly exposing the fiber optic material to different durations of optical energy, nonuniform grating strengths are created within the fiber, thereby creating a fiber optic section having asymmetric grating strengths.

Abstract: A distributed feedback fiber laser having designed asymmetric power output ports is disclosed. The present invention uses nonuniform grating strengths in a laser cavity of an erbium doped fiber optic material to create nonuniform reflection within the cavity. The stronger the grating strength in a particular section of the cavity, the more reflectivity that section has. This construction results in a fiber laser having two output ports with different output intensities. In a method for creating nonuniform grating strengths within the fiber optic material, photosensitive fiber optic material is exposed to an optical source through a mask. As the fiber optic material is exposed, the grating strength of the fiber is changed. By linearly exposing the fiber optic material to different durations of optical energy, nonuniform grating strengths are created within the fiber.