Nufern photosensitive 980 nm polarization maintaining fiber is designed to perform all functions of a 980 nm PM fiber but with enhanced photosensitivity for fabrication of gratings. This fiber is designed for use in pump diodes, couplers and multiplexers. PS-PM980 allows component manufacturers to make low cost fibertails for 980 nm pumps. Using one fiber that provides excellent photosensitivity, as well as polarization maintaining attributes, substantially reduces writing time thus lowering costs.