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Updated: Jan 22, 2026

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Carrier Lifetime Measurements in Semiconductors through the Microwave Photoconductivity Decay Method
Published on: April 18, 2019
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Frequency-modulated continuous-wave microwave generation using stabilized period-one nonlinear dynamics of
Optics Letters
|July 2, 2019
Summary
This study demonstrates stable frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) microwave generation using stabilized semiconductor laser dynamics. Phase locking enables tunable microwave frequencies up to 40 GHz, with potential for higher frequencies.
Area of Science:
- Photonics
- Nonlinear Dynamics
- Microwave Engineering
Background:
- Semiconductor lasers exhibit complex nonlinear dynamics, including period-one (P1) oscillations.
- Optical injection can stabilize and control these nonlinear dynamics.
- Frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) microwave generation is crucial for radar and communication systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate FMCW microwave generation using stabilized P1 dynamics in a semiconductor laser.
- To explore the role of comb-like (CL) optical injection in controlling laser dynamics and microwave output.
- To achieve stable and tunable FMCW microwave signals.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a semiconductor laser subjected to CL optical injection.
- Stabilizing P1 nonlinear dynamics through phase locking with the CL injection.
- Modulating the CL injection frequency to control the P1 oscillation frequency.
Main Results:
- Achieved phase locking between P1 dynamics and CL optical injection, enhancing oscillation stability.
- Demonstrated stable FMCW microwave generation with central frequencies up to 40 GHz.
- Showcased tunable frequency sweeps (linear, triangular, step-wise) over a 4 GHz range and reconfigurable periods (100 ns to 10 ms).
- Indicated potential for operation up to 100 GHz.
Conclusions:
- Phase locking of P1 dynamics with CL optical injection provides a robust method for stable FMCW microwave generation.
- The system offers significant tunability in central frequency and sweep characteristics.
- This approach shows promise for high-frequency FMCW applications.
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