  Light sources utilizing \c{hi}(2) parametric conversion combine high
brightness with attractive operation wavelengths in the near and mid-infrared.
In optical fibers it is possible to use \c{hi}(3) degenerate four-wave mixing
in order the obtain signal-to-idler frequency detuning of over 100 THz. We
report on a test series of nonlinear soft glass suspended core fibers intended
for parametric conversion of 1000-1100 nm signal wavelengths available from an
array of mature lasers into the near-to-mid-infrared range of 2700-3500 nm
under pumping with an erbium sub-picosecond laser system. Presented discussion
includes modelling of the fiber properties, details of their physical
development and characterization, as well as experimental tests of parametric
conversion.

Optics