Monolithically integrated multi-wavelength VCSEL arrays using high-contrast gratings.

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Semiconductor Devices
• Photonics

Background:

• Vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are crucial optoelectronic components.
• Achieving multi-wavelength emission from VCSEL arrays often requires complex fabrication processes.
• Existing designs may have limitations in tuning range and manufacturing scalability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel design for multi-wavelength VCSEL arrays.
• To demonstrate wavelength tunability exceeding 100 nm using high-contrast gratings (HCGs).
• To facilitate cost-effective manufacturing of VCSEL arrays for broad spectral applications.

Main Methods:

• Proposed a novel VCSEL design incorporating high-contrast gratings (HCGs) as top mirrors.
• Investigated the effect of HCG period and duty-cycle on VCSEL cavity wavelengths.
• Utilized lithography for defining emission wavelengths without altering epitaxial layer thickness.

Main Results:

• Predicted a VCSEL cavity wavelength range exceeding 100 nm by modifying HCG parameters.
• Demonstrated that epitaxial layer thickness remains constant.
• Showcased the potential to cover the entire Er-doped fiber amplifier bandwidth.

Conclusions:

• The novel HCG-based VCSEL design offers significant wavelength tuning capabilities.
• This approach simplifies manufacturing and reduces costs for multi-wavelength VCSEL arrays.
• The design is compatible with existing VCSEL fabrication processes, facilitating widespread adoption.