Abstract

A self-pulsating laser diode emits a stream of short optical pulses at a well-defined repetition frequency. The self-pulsating emission has low coherence, which makes these lasers well suited for data storage applications since sensitivity to feedback is reduced. Shorter wavelength emitters are required for increased future compact disk storage. Development of these emitters requires greater understanding of self-pulsation in compact disk lasers, it’s causes, and the influence of laser structures and materials. We present an investigation into the effects of carrier diffusion and carrier density refractive index modifications on self-pulsation in these devices.

© 1998 IEEE