Stabilizing continuous-wave output in semiconductor lasers by time-delayed feedback

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that multiple time-delayed optical feedback can stabilize continuous-wave operation in semiconductor lasers by suppressing intensity pulsations, with control domains mapped against various feedback parameters.

Contribution

It introduces a modified Lang-Kobayashi model incorporating multiple time delays and analyzes how feedback parameters influence laser stabilization and multistability.

Findings

Feedback stabilizes continuous-wave output.

Multistability and pulsations depend on feedback parameters.

Control is achievable through current ramping during turn-on.

Abstract

The stabilization of steady states is studied in a modified Lang-Kobayashi model of a semiconductor laser. We show that multiple time-delayed feedback, realized by a Fabry-Perot resonator coupled to the laser, provides a valuable tool for the suppression of unwanted intensity pulsations, and leads to stable continuous-wave operation. The domains of control are calulated in dependence on the feedback strength, delay time (cavity round trip time), memory parameter (mirror reflectivity), latency time, feedback phase, and bandpass filtering, Due to the optical feedback, multistable behavior can also occur in the form of delay-induced intensity pulsations or other modes for certain choices of the control parameters. Control may then still be achieved by slowly ramping the injection current during turn-on.