Wavelength tuning and switching of a coupled distributed feedback and Fabry--Perot cavity laser
We present a theoretical analysis of a newly demonstrated semiconductor laser with coupled distributed feedback and Fabry--Perot (DFB-FP) cavities and show that three modes of operation are possible for such a laser. In mode-switched DFB mode, the wavelength can be switched between longitudinal modes on either side of the stopband. In coupled-cavity laser mode, there are successive mode hops inside the stopband. Finally, in continuously tunable distributed Bragg reflector mode, a wide wavelength tuning range (4.8 A) without mode hopping can be obtained. The analysis is general enough to be applied to any laser with a periodic waveguide section, and provides an understanding of the mechanisms and the limits of wavelength tuning in such lasers. This type of laser has very important applications in coherent optical communications.
- Research Organization:
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, Electronics Research Laboratory and Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720
- OSTI ID:
- 5525474
- Journal Information:
- J. Appl. Phys.; (United States), Vol. 63:2
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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