Polarization switching dynamics in single-mode VCSELs

Year: 2001

Authors: Albert J, Panajotov K., Verschaffelt G., Nagler B., Thienpont H., Veretennicoff J., Danckaert J., Barbay S., Giacomelli G., Marin F., Monti di Sopra F., Eitel S.

Autors Affiliation: Department of applied physics and photonics -Vrije Universiteit Brussel,
Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussel, Belgium;
Institute of Solid State Physics, 72 Tzarigradsko Chaussee blvd, 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria;
Istituto Nazionale di Ottica Applicata and Univ. degli Studi di Firenze, Largo Fermi 6, 50125 Firenze, Italy;
Univ. degli Studi di Firenze and LENS, Largo Fermi 6, 50125 Firenze, Italy; CSEM, Badenerstrasse 569, P.O. Box CH-8048 Zurich, Switzerland

Abstract: We present an accurate experimental characterization of the dynamical properties of polarization switching (PS) in single transverse and longitudinal mode vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). When a VCSEL is driven with a constant current at its polarization switching point, it makes random jumps between its two linear polarization states. This phenomenon is called mode-hopping. The permanence times in the two polarization states show an exponentially decreasing distribution, according to Arrhenius’ law. The average permanence time varies over several orders of magnitude depending on the relative difference between threshold and switching current. We have performed a statistical experimental characterization of the residence times of mode hopping VCSELs for both proton implanted and oxide confined samples, and find our results to be in excellent agreement with the theoretical predictions from a novel intensity rate equation model.

Journal/Review: PROCEEDINGS OF SPIE

Volume: 4286      Pages from: 34  to: 43

KeyWords: VCSEL; polarization states;
DOI: 10.1117/12.424812

Citations: 5
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