Theory of operation of the double-heterostructure optoelectronic switch operating as a laser

A theoretical description for the operation of the thyristor laser is developed based upon the unique current equations for the thyristor ON-state conduction. The laser equations are based upon the assumption of no k selection and allow closed-form solutions for the Fermi energies and the lasing frequency. The results are compared to the corresponding results for the p-n diode laser, and the thyristor is shown to have a slight advantage in threshold current and efficiency. The results are compared to experiment, and favorable agreement with the predictions is obtained.