Two-dimensional coherent laser arrays using grating surface emission

• Published in: IEEE journal of quantum electronics Vol. 25; no. 6; pp. 1525 - 1538
• Main Authors: Evans, G.A., Carlson, N.W., Hammer, J.M., Lurie, M., Butler, J.K., Palfrey, S.L., Amantea, R., Carr, L.A., Hawrylo, F.Z., James, E.A., Kaiser, C.J., Kirk, J.B., Reichert, W.F.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01.06.1989
• Subjects: Apertures; Geometrical optics; Gratings; Laser feedback; Optical arrays; Optical coupling; Optical device fabrication; Semiconductor laser arrays; Surface emitting lasers; Wavelength measurement
• ISSN: 0018-9197; 1558-1713
• DOI: 10.1109/3.29289

The concepts, fabrication, and operating characteristics of monolithic two-dimensional, coherent AlGaAs laser arrays are presented. The arrays consist of 100 (10*10) active elements fabricated from a single-quantum-well graded-index separate-confinement heterostructure laser geometry. A surface relief grating is used for feedback and outcoupling. The elements of the array are index-guided ridge lasers with evanescent or Y coupling in the lateral direction and injection coupling longitudinally. The far field emanating from a 60- mu m*5-mm aperture, measures 0.01 degrees *1 degrees . These arrays emit more than 1 W peak power into a 2-AA wavelength interval. By adjusting the drive current to the electrically independent gain sections of these arrays, the angular position of the far-field beam can be steered.< >