Modal characteristics of large-aperture ARROW VCSELs

Abstract

Antiresonant reflecting optical waveguide (ARROW) vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) are designed for high power single mode operation. Scalar wave and finite-difference time domain (FDTD) studies indicate large modal discrimination in favor of the fundamental mode for large aperture (8 µm) ARROW VCSELs. The modal discrimination mechanisms are identified through the total modal loss and quality factor calculations including polarization dependence.A novel design is presented, utilizing metal absorption loss to help suppress higher-order modes.