| Distributed feedback (DFB) semiconductor laser diodes are well suited for long-haul high-bit-rate communications systems. Two electrode DFB lasers are produced commercially as tunable wavelength sources for wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) systems. These lasers can also exhibit interesting behaviors such as wavelength switching, bistability, or a combination of the two. Optical bistability is attractive for use in all-optical communication systems.;This thesis examines a 1.55-mum ridge-waveguide strained-multiquantum-well index-coupled DF13 laser diode designed and fabricated by Nortel Networks of Ottawa, Canada. Both static and dynamic characteristics have been studied and the results are presented.;The framework for a model of the laser was developed. Two variations are presented, one based on modified rate equations, and another based on modified coupled power equations. The models include the effects of multiple modes, spatial hole burning, and wavelength detuning. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
