Abstract

Distributed feedback (DFB) semiconductor lasers do not require cleaved facets in constructing the optical resonator, and therefore seem the best candidates for light sources in monolithically integrated optical devices and circuits. Integrations of a DFB laser and other optical components such as intensity modulators and wavelength tuners^1-5 have recently been demonstrated. In such configuration, the reflection from the adjoining component affects the oscillation of the DFB laser, which provides the wavelength tuning capability. This, however, brings another instability to the laser, and in general seems to degrade the overall characteristics of the integrated devices, yet there has scarcely been theoretical studies treating this point quantitatively. Here we analyze static and dynamic properties of an integrated DFB laser with an optical amplifier/modulator, placing emphasis on the effects of the facet reflection.

© 1988 Optical Society of America