Abstract

Vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are generating considerable interest due to their potential for integration into two-dimensional (2D) arrays. Efficient heat dissipation is critical for future applications such as optical interconnects, information processing, or neural networks, where massive integration is required. A major obstacle preventing the development of electrically-pumped 2D arrays today is their intense heating. In this paper, we examine limits on thermal dissipation in large-size 2D arrays of proton-implanted top surface-emitting lasers (PITSELs)¹ Planar GaAs/AlCaAs PITSELs emitting light through the top surface are very attractive for integration due to their relatively low series resistance² and wavelength compatibility (and associated cascadability) with GaAs-based phototransistors or photothyristors. Vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are generating considerable interest due to their potential for integration into two-dimensional (2D) arrays.

© 1993 Optical Society of America