An apparatus and method for a self-adjusting Raman amplifier for fiber optic transmission lines incorporating a line diagnostic mechanism in order to calculate, control and optimize the operating parameters for the amplifier. A Line Analyzing Unit, adjacent to the Raman pump unit, operates before the Raman pump is enabled and during operation, and characterizes the transmission line. The Line Analyzing Unit determines and characterizes the types of optical fibers installed along the transmission line and calculates and optimizes the pump or pumps power in order to achieve optimum gain, gain equalization and gain tilt. The Line Analyzing Unit may also determine if there is an optical loss or reflection in the optical fiber that can be destructive when the high power Raman pump is operating.