1.55-μ m tunable VCSEL for metro-WDM applications

Abstract

Wavelength-tunable lasers, detectors, and optical filters are expected to play a pivotal role in the future ultrahigh bandwidth dense-wavelength-division-multiplexed (DWDM) optical networks, enabling revolutionary new applications such as wavelength-on-demand in a reconfigurable all-optical network. Combining the unique single wavelength property of a vertical cavity and the wide mechanical movement of a MEMS mirror, we are able to demonstrate photonic devices with a very wide tuning range and excellent performance. Electrically-pumped, continuously tunable VCSEL emitting in 1530-1620 nm wavelength regime is reported. The VCSELs exhibit a continuous, repeatable and hysterisis-free wavelength-tuning characteristic. Further, the VCSELs are directly modulated at 2.5 Gbps and has >45 dB side mode suppression ratio (SMSR) over the entire tuning range. Accurate wavelength locking is achieved in ~200 usec by a simple universal locker.