Abstract

We describe the investigation of a new mechanism for waveform generation in diode laser systems based on directional switching of a traveling wave. This mechanism permits the passive generation of fast rise-time square waves that can be controlled using external cavity geometry. Optical square-wave sources are useful for applications in optical communication, optical computing, and signal processing. Previous approaches for generating rapid rise-time switching have used electrical modulation or electrical feedback schemes such as switching in self-electrooptic effect devices¹ and polarization switching.²

© 1991 Optical Society of America