Millimeter-wave noise generation based on a monolithically integrated dual-mode chaotic laser

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Optoelectronics
• Microwave Engineering

Background:

• Millimeter-wave (mmWave) noise sources are crucial for various applications, including testing and secure communications.
• Existing noise generation methods often face limitations in terms of size, integration, and efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and demonstrate a novel millimeter-wave noise generation scheme.
• To utilize a monolithically integrated dual-mode chaotic laser as a compact and efficient light source.

Main Methods:

• A monolithically integrated dual-mode chaotic laser was designed and fabricated, featuring distributed Bragg feedback (DFB), phase, and amplification sections.
• The output spectrum and chaotic states were controlled by adjusting injection currents.
• Optical mixing of the laser output on a photodetector generated millimeter-wave noise.

Main Results:

• A dual-mode chaotic laser with a 2.05 nm mode interval was experimentally generated.
• Millimeter-wave noise centered at 259 GHz with a 44 GHz bandwidth (237-281 GHz) was produced.
• A typical excess noise ratio of 47 dB was achieved.

Conclusions:

• The proposed scheme offers a stable and controllable source for integrated millimeter-wave noise generation.
• The integrated dual-mode chaotic laser provides advantages in terms of high noise source utilization, small volume, and high integration.
• This technology holds promise for compact and efficient millimeter-wave noise applications.