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Simple dispersion estimate for single-section quantum-dash and quantum-dot mode-locked laser diodes.
Optics Letters
|December 16, 2016
Summary
Mode-locked lasers (MLLs) with quantum dots and dashes show significant group velocity dispersion. A new formula accurately predicts this dispersion based on spectral properties and cavity round-trip time.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Semiconductor Lasers
Background:
- Single-section quantum-dash and quantum-dot mode-locked lasers (MLLs) are known for strong group velocity dispersion.
- Understanding and quantifying this dispersion is crucial for laser performance and applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm the relationship between spectral phase, group delay, and cavity round-trip time in quantum-dash and quantum-dot MLLs.
- To develop an empirical formula for predicting accumulated dispersion in these lasers.
Main Methods:
- Careful measurement of the spectral phase of laser pulses.
- Analysis of the group delay difference between spectral modes.
- Derivation of an empirical dispersion formula.
Main Results:
- Confirmed that the group delay difference equals the cavity round-trip time.
- Developed an empirical formula relating dispersion to spectral extent and free-spectral range.
- Demonstrated excellent agreement with prior dispersion measurements.
Conclusions:
- The derived empirical formula provides an accurate method for predicting group velocity dispersion in quantum-dash and quantum-dot MLLs.
- This finding simplifies dispersion characterization and aids in laser design.
