Effect of phase shift position on spectral linewidth of the pi /2 distributed feedback laser diode

The dependence of the spectral linewidth on the phase shift position (PSP) of a phase-shifted distributed-feedback (DFB) laser diode is investigated theoretically, using the coupled wave model. In particular, the analysis is performed to find an optimum PSP so as to minimize the spectral linewidth of the laser diode. This optimum PSP is compared to that obtained by maximizing the stability of the laser oscillation. Since both narrow spectral linewidth and good stability are essential for the light source in coherent optical communications, the analysis revealed the suitability of using phase-shifted DFB laser diodes in coherent transmissions.<
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