Abstract

Mode partition noise, the sharing of a total constant intensity among a number of laser modes, is a major source of noise in nearly single-mode lasers. Following Agrawal,¹ we apply the equations of Lax² to a semiconductor laser. We allow for two lasing modes, one suppressed in intensity relative to the primary mode. We solve these stochastic differential equations numerically and perform ensemble averages over many simulations. By solving fully nonlinear equations, we may examine the regions of applicability of common quasilinear approximations. We have employed a dynamic description of the quantum noise sources, valid away from the operating point. This allows us to study the buildup of the laser field. Auto- and cross-correlations are calculated between the modes.

© 1991 Optical Society of America