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External cavity semiconductor laser with a Fourier grating and an aspheric lens
Applied Optics
|September 8, 2010
Summary
This study demonstrates a stable single longitudinal mode external cavity laser diode using a Fourier grating and aspheric lens. The device achieved tunable wavelength and narrow linewidth, crucial for advanced laser applications.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Semiconductor Lasers
Background:
- Achieving stable single longitudinal mode oscillation in external cavity laser diodes requires strong coupling.
- External cavity design is critical for controlling laser output characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and fabricate an external cavity laser diode with stable single longitudinal mode oscillation.
- To investigate the performance of a novel external cavity configuration for laser diodes.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of an external cavity laser diode using an AlGaAs/GaAs laser diode, Fourier grating, and aspheric glass lens.
- Utilizing a high diffraction efficiency Fourier grating independent of polarization.
- Employing an antireflection-coated aspheric lens to minimize optical coupling losses.
Main Results:
- Stable single longitudinal mode oscillation achieved at approximately 0.8 micrometers.
- Tunable oscillation wavelength over a 45 nm range.
- Side-mode suppression ratio better than -35 dB.
- Effective amplitude reflectivity of the external cavity estimated at 0.63.
- Achieved a laser linewidth of less than 100 kHz.
Conclusions:
- The designed external cavity laser diode successfully achieves stable single longitudinal mode operation.
- The combination of Fourier grating and aspheric lens enhances coupling efficiency and performance.
- The device shows potential for applications requiring narrow linewidth and tunable lasers.

