Finely tunable 1.55 µm emitting VeCSELs for embedded and compact optical and microwave systems

Abstract

International audienceCompact wavelength-tunable laser sources are important for the development of optical based system units which can be used for numerous applications, ranging from optical communications, optical sensors, and even microwave photonics and high resolution spectroscopy. In most cases, large mode-hop-free wavelength tuning is of high interests to increase system performances and versatilities. In the metrology area, a small but very accurate wavelength tuning is required to fulfill system requirements. Thanks to their long cavity, VeCSELs offer the opportunity to get small laser wavelength linewidth, and shot noise limited behavior (class-A lasers). In this work we summarize the objectives and the preliminary results of the ANR Astrid HYPOCAMP project (HYbrid Polarisation controlled and mOnolithic tunable vertical Cavity surface emitting lAsers, for eMbedded and comPact optical and microwave systems), which is lead by FOTON in partnership with IPR (Rennes), CNRS-LAAS (Toulouse), CNRS-LPN (Marcoussis) and Telecom Bretagne. The project aims to develop a compact, reliable and low cost monolithic and versatile technology for the realization of tunable V(e)CSEL lasers, emitting in the 1.55 µm range (InP-based technology). In Fig.1 the optically-pumped external-cavity version of the device is presented