Unveiling the dynamical diversity of quantum dot lasers subject to optoelectronic feedback

TL;DR

This study explores the complex nonlinear behaviors of quantum dot lasers on silicon under optoelectronic feedback, revealing a broad spectrum of dynamics and potential for advanced optical applications.

Contribution

It provides the first comprehensive experimental and numerical analysis showing quantum dot lasers on silicon exhibit diverse and stable nonlinear dynamics under feedback, unlike quantum well lasers.

Findings

Quantum dot lasers display square wave, quasi-chaotic, and mixed waveforms.

They are more sensitive to optoelectronic feedback than quantum well lasers.

Simulations confirm rapid dynamic transformations due to feedback.

Abstract

This paper investigates experimentally and numerically the nonlinear dynamics of an epitaxial quantum dot laser on silicon subjected to optoelectronic feedback. Experimental results showcase a diverse range of dynamics, encompassing square wave patterns, quasi-chaotic states, and mixed waveforms exhibiting fast and slow oscillations. These measurements unequivocally demonstrate that quantum dot lasers on silicon readily and stably generate a more extensive repertoire of nonlinear dynamics compared to quantum well lasers. This pronounced sensitivity of quantum dot lasers to optoelectronic feedback represents a notable departure from their inherent insensitivity to optical feedback arising from reflections. Moreover, based on the Ikeda-like model, our simulations illustrate that the inherent characteristics of quantum dot lasers on silicon enable rapid and diverse dynamic transformations in response to optoelectronic feedback. The emergence of these exotic dynamics paves the way for further applications like integrated optical clocks, optical logic, and optical computing.