Abstract

Semiconductor-diode lasers have already had a major impact on several fields of optics. These devices, which are compact, robust, convenient, inexpensive, and highly efficient, are currently manufactured at the rate of well over one million monthly. This year marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the first demonstrations of the semiconductor-diode laser. We review the evolution of the semiconductor laser with special emphasis on identifying novel devices and milestones. The current state of the art is then discussed, a brief review of applications is presented, and the future potential of the diode laser and associated devices is considered.

© 1987 Optical Society of America