Externally-Triggered Activation and Inhibition of Optical Pulsating Regimes in Quantum-Dot Mode-locked Lasers

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Quantum Optics
• Laser Technology

Background:

• Picosecond optical pulses are crucial for advanced applications.
• Precise control over pulse generation and timing remains a challenge.
• Quantum dot mode-locked lasers (QDMLLs) offer potential for compact and tunable pulse generation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate controlled generation and inhibition of picosecond optical pulses.
• To achieve precise control over pulse timing, duration, and repetition frequency.
• To explore the use of a monolithic QDMLL for telecommunication-compatible applications.

Main Methods:

• Experimental demonstration using a quantum dot mode-locked laser (QDMLL).
• External injection of an amplitude-modulated optical signal to trigger and control pulses.
• Operation at 1300 nm wavelength for telecommunication compatibility.

Main Results:

• Achieved controlled generation and inhibition of externally-triggered picosecond optical pulsating regimes.
• Demonstrated precise control over the temporal duration (sub-nanosecond spans) and repetition frequency (sub-Hz to hundreds of MHz) of optical pulses.
• Utilized a monolithic QDMLL with a small footprint.

Conclusions:

• The developed method offers full control and repeatability of picosecond optical pulse generation.
• The system is compatible with optical telecommunication networks.
• The technology shows promise for applications in optical imaging, time-of-flight diagnostics, and optical communication systems requiring tunable, precisely timed ultrashort pulses.