Title :
A simple model for the intensity noise of single mode class-A lasers
Author :
Baili, Ghaya ; Alouini, Mehdi ; Bretenaker, Fabien ; Dolfi, Daniel ; Sagnes, Isabelle
Author_Institution :
Thales Res. & Technol. France, Palaiseau
Abstract :
Single frequency class-A semiconductor (SC) lasers based on a long or a high-Q cavity configuration can be shot noise limited over a large spectral bandwidth. It results from adiabatic elimination of carriers leading to relaxation oscillation free operation. Nevertheless, some excess noise can be observed at the low frequencies and at multiples of the cavity free spectral range (FSR). Although the level of the excess noise in this type of lasers is low, its presence can be inconvenient for some stringent applications such as distribution of high purity radar signals. The optimization of the laser requires a quantitative prediction of its noise characteristics according to the cavity parameters. We propose, here, a simple model devoted to this purpose. The model predictions are compared with measurements performed on a class-A SC laser.
Keywords :
laser modes; laser noise; semiconductor lasers; shot noise; surface emitting lasers; adiabatic elimination; cavity free spectral range; cavity parameters; high purity radar signals; high-Q cavity configuration; intensity noise; relaxation oscillation free operation; semiconductor lasers; shot noise; single mode class-A lasers; Bandwidth; Frequency; Laser modes; Laser noise; Laser radar; Low-frequency noise; Noise level; Radar applications; Semiconductor device noise; Semiconductor lasers;
Conference_Titel :
Lasers and Electro-Optics, 2007 and the International Quantum Electronics Conference. CLEOE-IQEC 2007. European Conference on
Conference_Location :
Munich
Print_ISBN :
978-1-4244-0931-0
Electronic_ISBN :
978-1-4244-0931-0
DOI :
10.1109/CLEOE-IQEC.2007.4385920