Abstract

In this paper, we propose, analyze, and experimentally demonstrate a new type of distributed feedback laser, the multiply-resonant distributed feed-back (MRDFB) laser. For active media having broad, partially- or fully-inhomogeneous gain lines, the MRDFB laser allows colinear lasing to occur simultaneously at several preselected wavelengths. The MRDFB laser has potential application in ultra-high data rate communication systems where frequency multiplexing is required. In such an application, the MRDFB laser offers potential reductions, when compared with a number of conventional, single wavelength lasers, in fabricational complexity and total laser power required.

© 1976 Optical Society of America