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Optical bistability using a Fabry-Perot semiconductor-laser amplifier with two holding beams
Optics Letters
|September 11, 2009
Summary
This study demonstrates bistable optical switching using a semiconductor laser amplifier. Researchers achieved both normal and reverse hysteresis in signal output by controlling input power and initial detuning.
Area of Science:
- Nonlinear optics
- Semiconductor device physics
- Optical signal processing
Background:
- Fabry-Perot semiconductor laser amplifiers exhibit nonlinear optical properties.
- Optical bistability is a phenomenon where an optical system can exist in one of two states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first demonstration of bistable switching of an optical signal beam using a control beam of a different wavelength.
- To investigate the nonlinear characteristics of a Fabry-Perot semiconductor-laser amplifier for optical switching applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the nonlinear optical properties of a Fabry-Perot semiconductor-laser amplifier.
- Employing a control beam at a different wavelength to switch an optical signal beam.
- Theoretically and experimentally analyzing the signal output power as a function of control input power.
Main Results:
- Achieved bistable switching of an optical signal beam.
- Demonstrated both normal (counterclockwise) and reverse (clockwise) hysteresis.
- Observed hysteresis dependent on the initial detuning of the optical signal beam.
Conclusions:
- Bistable optical switching is feasible using nonlinear Fabry-Perot semiconductor laser amplifiers.
- The observed hysteresis can be controlled by adjusting the initial detuning and input power.
- This work opens possibilities for all-optical signal processing and switching devices.
