Dynamics of vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser with two transverse modes

A theoretical and experimental investigation of the dynamics and steady-state regime of a two-mode vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) is presented. A simple theoretical model was formulated which confirmed and explained experimental observations. The phenomenological model takes into account the variation of confinement factor, and it has been validated by measurements. Results from this model demonstrate the importance of carrier distribution dynamics in establishing stable operation and prediction of turn-on and turn-off regimes.