Abstract

For viable DWDM systems, low cost laser sources maintaining accurate adherence to the particular channel wavelength spacing are required. This paper describes a new type of the source, a multiwavelength, superbroadband diode laser, for use in DWDM systems. It is based on a novel external cavity design where optical components of the cavity maintain distinct gain channels in the active medium, force each channel to operate at a specific stabilized wavelength, reduce cross talk, and suppress mode competition.¹⁻² The design of the cavity is so flexible that it allows utilization of multistripe diode chips, diode arrays, as well as individual diode lasers made from different materials. The laser could be readily integrated with an external modulator. With a multistripe diode chip or diode array cavity a current modulation of individual channels can be realized. Detailed description of the principles of operation is described elsewhere.²

© 2002 Optical Society of America