Abstract

Optical microresonators are of interest for studies of quantum electrodynamic (QED) phenomena as well as for low threshold microlasers and efficient LEDs. As the optical mode volume of a microresonator approaches a cubic wavelength, the number of modes interacting with the optically active spectral region in the microresonator approaches unity. This tutorial will begin with a description of QED phenomena in thin films, optical resonators, and local optical modes in photonic band gaps. Both spontaneous radiation patterns and rates are strongly modified in microresonators. Next several experimental systems will be reviewed, including distributed Bragg mirrors for vertical emitting semiconductor microresonators, whispering-gallery modes in spheres and disks, and localized optical modes in periodic dielectric structures. The behavior of microlasers near the lasing threshold will be discussed, including the light output as a function pump power and the expected spectral linewidth. A number of interesting applications for microlasers and microresonators, including efficient LEDs, microlaser arrays, optical interconnects, squeezed light sources, and high functionality microphotonic circuits, will be described.

© 1992 Optical Society of America