Global and local effects in gain-coupled multiple-quantum-well DFB lasers

Global and local effects in gain-coupled multiple-quantum-well distributed feedback lasers are analyzed using a new approach that combines a submicrometer two-dimensional analysis together with a longitudinal transfer-matrix calculation. Issues such as complex coupling, the standing wave effect, hole burning, and barrier effects are examined in some detail. It is also shown that, due to the local interactions, the grating contrast is nonuniform along the cavity, leading to the new phenomenon of differential longitudinal spatial hole burning.