Integrated tunable laser with ns-switching speed using filtered feedback

Abstract

A new integrated tunable laser combining simple tuning method with ns switching speed has been designed, fabricated and investigated. It consists of a Fabry-Perot laser with deeply-etched DBR mirrors. The Fabry-Perot modes can be selected independently using an Arrayed Waveguide Grating (AWG) and then re-injected into the laser cavity, forcing single mode operation. A rate equation model predicts that a properly designed device can switch within 1 ns, while characterization measurements show a value of only 3 ns