Optical nonlinear functionalities of quantum well lasers

The two-section strained-quantum-well distributed-feedback index-coupled and gain-coupled lasers have been studied theoretically and experimentally by our group. The structure is a natural, inherently nonlinear switch. It consists of two laser cavities coupled in series, which is generally a nonlinear system in itself. Depending on current bias conditions on each section, different bistable and wavelength states occur.