Multiple quantum well optical modulator structures using surface acoustic wave induced Stark effect

Multiple-quantum-well (MQW) optical modulator structures using the quantum-confined Stark effect (QCSE) manifested by the application of an electric field induced by a propagating surface acoustic wave (SAW) are proposed. The magnitudes of the parallel E/sub /// and perpendicular E/sub perpendicular to / electric-field components are computed to determine the electroabsorption and change of index of refraction for the AlGaAs-GaAs system. The proposed structures are shown to be less cumbersome than conventional p-i-n configurations used to impress E. In addition, an enhanced performance Bragg modulator/switch which utilizes the QCSE as well as the acoustic phase grating produced by the SAW beam is described.<>