Design trade-offs and evaluation of the performance: attainable by GaAs-Al/sub 0.3/Ga/sub 0.7/As asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulators

We use a semi-empirical theoretical model to evaluate the performance ultimately attainable by normally-on asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulators (AFPMs) that incorporate GaAs-Al/sub 0.3/Ga/sub 0.7/As multiple quantum wells (MQW). Various optimization criteria are employed and the calculations address issues that involve both the micro-resonator design and the quantum-well region. Thus we evaluate the minimum required barrier width in order to compare between different well widths, and examine the final AFPM performance in many respects, considering not only the modulation itself but also the tolerances and the speed of the device. Finally, we proceed to the design of example devices where some characteristics have been specifically optimized.<
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