Harmonically mode-locked semiconductor-based lasers as high repetition rate ultralow noise pulse train and optical frequency comb sources

    Authors

    F. Quinlan; S. Ozharar; S. Gee;P. J. Delfyett

    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Opt. A-Pure Appl. Opt.

    Keywords

    semiconductor lasers; mode-locked lasers; harmonic mode-locking; supermode noise; frequency comb; coupled optoelectronic oscillators; timing jitter; COUPLED OPTOELECTRONIC OSCILLATOR; FIBER-RING LASER; LIMITED TIMING; JITTER; TO-DIGITAL CONVERTERS; WAVE-GUIDE AMPLIFIER; SELF-STABILIZATION; MICROWAVE SIGNALS; FEMTOSECOND LASER; SUPERMODE NOISE; QUANTUM-NOISE; Optics

    Abstract

    Recent experimental work on semiconductor-based harmonically mode-locked lasers geared toward low noise applications is reviewed. Active, harmonic mode-locking of semiconductor-based lasers has proven to be an excellent way to generate 10 GHz repetition rate pulse trains with pulse-to-pulse timing jitter of only a few femtoseconds without requiring active feedback stabilization. This level of timing jitter is achieved in long fiberized ring cavities and relies upon such factors as low noise rf sources as mode-lockers, high optical power, intracavity dispersion management and intracavity phase modulation. When a high finesse etalon is placed within the optical cavity, semiconductor-based harmonically mode-locked lasers can be used as optical frequency comb sources with 10 GHz mode spacing. When active mode-locking is replaced with regenerative mode-locking, a completely self-contained comb source is created, referenced to the intracavity etalon.

    Journal Title

    Journal of Optics a-Pure and Applied Optics

    Volume

    11

    Issue/Number

    10

    Publication Date

    1-1-2009

    Document Type

    Review

    Language

    English

    First Page

    23

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000269822200001

    ISSN

    1464-4258

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