Linewidth characteristics of period-one dynamics induced by optically injected semiconductor lasers

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Nonlinear Dynamics
• Semiconductor Lasers

Background:

• Optically injected semiconductor lasers exhibit period-one (P1) nonlinear dynamics.
• These dynamics result in periodic intensity fluctuations tunable in the micro/millimeter-wave range.
• Understanding noise effects on these oscillations is crucial for applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the microwave linewidth characteristics of P1 oscillations.
• To analyze the impact of intrinsic laser noise sources on optical frequency components.
• To systematically consider field and carrier noise from master and slave lasers.

Main Methods:

• Numerical experiments were conducted to simulate the laser dynamics.
• Systematic analysis of field and carrier noise from both master and slave lasers.
• Investigation of operating conditions affecting microwave linewidth.

Main Results:

• Master laser field noise significantly broadens the microwave linewidth of P1 oscillations.
• Optimized operating conditions in high microwave power regions can yield narrower linewidths.
• Narrower microwave linewidths were achieved, even below the free-running optical linewidths of the lasers.
• Reduced sensitivity to time-dependent operating parameter fluctuations leads to a narrower microwave linewidth.

Conclusions:

• Master laser field noise is a dominant factor influencing the microwave linewidth of P1 oscillations.
• Careful adjustment of operating conditions can mitigate noise effects and narrow the microwave linewidth.
• Achieving linewidths narrower than free-running lasers is possible, enhancing potential applications.