Transmitter with quantum cascade laser for free space optics communication system

Abstract

Abstract. The paper presents results of experimental tests of the quantum cascade laser from Alpes Lasers company in terms of its application in the optic communication system in an open space. The measurements involved the current -voltage characteristics while measuring also the average power of emitted radiation, and spectral characteristics for different temperatures and different laser pulse durations. The duration of laser pulses was matched to parameters used in telecommunication interfaces. The construction of the transmitter module which uses the tested laser is also presented.

Experimental Study of the Free Space Optics Communication System Operating in the 8–12 µm Spectral Range

“…The optical system of the transmitting module used a single lens with a diameter of 25 mm, placed at a distance of 25 mm from the LLH head window in the optical axis of the laser. The results of laboratory tests of transmitter modules, which are analyzed in the proposed FSO system, are presented in References [22,35,36]. Experimental studies were conducted for the QCL laser to determine the optimum operational parameters of its work, taking into account the possibility of its use in the FSO link.…”

“…The researches included: measuring the characteristics of the average optical power changes as a function of control voltage, the current flowing through the laser structure and the temperature of the laser, and the designation of the spectral characteristics. The study has shown that the laser form Alpes Lasers can be successfully used in the FSO link [22].…”

“…These links are also safe for eyesight [21]. The conducted analyses show that for the construction of an optical link in open space, characterized by lower attenuation in hazy conditions than currently existing ones, QC lasers and MCT photodiode operating in the spectral range of 8-12 µm can be used [22][23][24].…”

Compact QCL driver for free-space transmitter

“…Two constructions of the FSO transmitter with QC lasers have been designed at the Institute of Optoelectronics, MUT [9,10]. The main elements of the transmitters are optical radiation sources (QC laser), collimating optics, laser driver kits, cooling system, data interfaces and mounting platforms [11].…”

All-fiber laser generating at 3.8 μm pumped by 1565 nm fiber laser and the second-order laser at 1.9 μm

“…Another effective way to generate mid‐IR is by difference‐frequency generations with frequency mixing of two lasers in a nonlinear material . In addition, the quantum cascade mid‐IR lasers (QCLs) have been demonstrated and provided applications for optical wireless communication . However, even though some progress has been made with new types of lattices for QCLs in the spectral region between 3 and 4 μm, these materials are still hampered by the relative lack of maturity of the technology, and operation in this region presents a challenge.…”