2-Dimensional Photonic Crystal For Better Performance With Less Power
- Detailed Technology Description
- This technology embeds a two-dimensional photonic crystal into the top face of a VCSEL, allowing accurate design and control of the model characteristics of the laser for use in high-performance optical communication equipment.
- Countries
- United States
- Application No.
- 7085301
- *Abstract
-
Low cost VCSELs are currently used in data communication applications where beam quality is of little importance. To operate at higher speeds and over longer distances, the devices must function in a single transverse mode with a carefully controlled beam. This technology embeds a two-dimensional photonic crystal into the top face of a VCSEL, allowing accurate design and control of the model characteristics of the laser for use in high-performance optical communication equipment.
DESCRIPTION/DETAILS
The technology is a photonic lattice, or crystal, consisting of a periodic array of ion beam-etched (or conventionally etched) holes. A set of holes is formed in the semiconductor surface in a pattern with one or more missing holes. This forms a defect in the pattern of the photonic crystal, according to a prescribed depth, hole diameter, and pattern pitch which will ensure operation in a single transverse mode. When placed above the Bragg reflector in a VCSEL, the photonic crystal effectively decouples the lateral optical confinement from the carrier (i.e., electron) confinement. By providing adequate optical confinement, the crystal helps preserve the device's single-mode operation and inhibits the onset of higher order modes.
The crystal can be designed for any wavelength, including longer wavelengths and even visible light, and using any material that is applicable to ion beam etching. This technology has been extensively tested on VCSELs fabricated from GaAs/AlGaAs materials.
BENEFITS
This technology separates optical from carrier (electron) confinement, preserving single-mode operation in vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs).
- Greater ease in injection of light into an optical fiber
- Increased possible size of laser device and thus output power
- Increased device reliability and stability
- Extended VCSEL applications
For more information about this technology, please contact the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Office of Technology Management at otm@illinois.edu.
This technology is available for ready-to-sign licensing. Click here.
- *IP Issue Date
- None
- *IP Type
- Utility
- Country/Region
- USA
