High power laser diodes

The 20-year-evolution of high-power laser diodes with a multitude of device designs that explore various practical applications is presented. The four major applications for high-power diode lasers, namely pumps for EDFAs, YAG rods, disk lasers and fiber lasers have a tremendous impact on the selection process in this evolution. The laser diode evolution has driven the industry towards very simple device designs, such as the narrow stripe and broad area laser, and to very robust and high yielding manufacturing technology.