Optimization of InGaAs/InGaAsP MQW mqw semiconductor amplifiers

Semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) based on quantum-wells (QW) are reported to have a low noise figure [1] and a large gain bandwidth [2] compared to bulk SOAs. These features make the QW SOA an attractive component for use as a pre-amplifier in future OEICs. In this paper the optimization of QW-structures for a low noise figure and a high gain is considered. Contrary to previous work [3], our model suggests that the noise figure does not depend critically on the number of wells. In addition, the predictions are compared to measurements of the noise figure and gain for a multiple quantum-well (MQW) amplifier.