Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
10:00
Gradient Echo Quantum Memory in Warm Atomic Vapor
Published on: November 11, 2013
Phase locking of a 2.7 THz quantum cascade laser to a microwave reference
P Khosropanah1, A Baryshev, W Zhang
1SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research, Landleven 12, 9747 AD Groningen, The Netherlands.
Optics Letters
|October 2, 2009
Summary
We achieved phase locking of a quantum cascade laser (QCL) to a microwave signal using harmonic generation. This breakthrough enables precise frequency control for far-infrared applications.
Area of Science:
- Terahertz (THz) photonics
- Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs)
- Nonlinear optics
Background:
- Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are crucial for generating THz radiation.
- Precise frequency control of QCLs is essential for advanced applications.
- External referencing methods are needed for stabilizing QCLs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate phase locking of a 2.7 THz metal-metal waveguide QCL.
- To establish a stable reference signal in the THz range.
- To explore the potential for heterodyne interferometry in the far-infrared.
Main Methods:
- Phase locking a 2.7 THz metal-metal waveguide QCL to an external microwave signal.
- Generating a 182 GHz reference signal via a multiplier chain (x12) from a 15 GHz microwave synthesizer.
- Utilizing a semiconductor superlattice nonlinear device to generate the 15th harmonic (2.7 THz).
- Mixing the QCL and reference radiations using a bolometer mixer and employing a phase-lock loop.
Main Results:
- Successful phase locking of the 2.7 THz QCL was confirmed via spectral analysis of the beat signal.
- Demonstrated a robust method for generating a high-frequency reference signal.
- Established a stable link between microwave and THz frequencies.
Conclusions:
- The phase locking of a THz QCL to a microwave reference is feasible.
- This technique paves the way for highly stable THz sources.
- Enables the extension of heterodyne interferometry into the far-infrared spectrum.
