an optical amplifier splits an optical signal into two signals . a first amplifier section receives the first signal . the first amplifier section includes a first optical fiber , having a first input , for generating a first output power , and a first pump source is coupled to the first input , for supplying a first energy amount to the first optical fiber . the optical amplifier also includes a second amplifier section to receive the second signal , which is arranged in parallel to , and under common control with , the first amplifier section . the second amplifier section includes a second optical fiber , having a second input , for generating a second output power , and a second pump source is coupled to the second input , for supplying a second energy amount to the second optical fiber . a total power of the first output power and the second output power is at least about 600 mill watts .