In this book, semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) are studied with a view to linear and nonlinear applications in next-generation optical networks. Quantum-dot SOAs can be optimized for linear amplification of signals with different modulation formats and multiplexing techniques. Conversely, bulk SOAs can be easily optimized for operation in the nonlinear regime. However, due to the fast carrier recovery times in QD SOAs we also look into nonlinear applications with these devices.
This thesis sheds light on the unique dynamics of optoelectronic devices based on semiconductor quantum-dots. The complex scattering processes involved in filling the optically active quantum-dot states and the presence of charge-carrier nonequilibrium conditions are identified as sources for the distinct dynamical behavior of quantum-dot based devices. Comprehensive theoretical models, which allow for an accurate description of such devices, are presented and applied to recent experimental observations. The low sensitivity of quantum-dot lasers to optical perturbations is directly attributed to their unique charge-carrier dynamics and amplitude-phase-coupling, which is found not to be accurately described by conventional approaches. The potential of quantum-dot semiconductor optical amplifiers for novel applications such as simultaneous multi-state amplification, ultra-wide wavelength conversion, and coherent pulse shaping is investigated. The scattering mechanisms and the unique electronic structure of semiconductor quantum-dots are found to make such devices prime candidates for the implementation of next-generation optoelectronic applications, which could significantly simplify optical telecommunication networks and open up novel high-speed data transmission schemes.
This book provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the art of optical signal processing technologies and devices. It presents breakthrough solutions for enabling a pervasive use of optics in data communication and signal storage applications. It presents presents optical signal processing as solution to overcome the capacity crunch in communication networks. The book content ranges from the development of innovative materials and devices, such as graphene and slow light structures, to the use of nonlinear optics for secure quantum information processing and overcoming the classical Shannon limit on channel capacity and microwave signal processing. Although it holds the promise for a substantial speed improvement, today’s communication infrastructure optics remains largely confined to the signal transport layer, as it lags behind electronics as far as signal processing is concerned. This situation will change in the near future as the tremendous growth of data traffic requires energy efficient and fully transparent all-optical networks. The book is written by leaders in the field.
A distinctive discussion of the nonlinear dynamical phenomena of semiconductor lasers. The book combines recent results of quantum dot laser modeling with mathematical details and an analytic understanding of nonlinear phenomena in semiconductor lasers and points out possible applications of lasers in cryptography and chaos control. This interdisciplinary approach makes it a unique and powerful source of knowledge for anyone intending to contribute to this field of research. By presenting both experimental and theoretical results, the distinguished authors consider solitary lasers with nano-structured material, as well as integrated devices with complex feedback sections. In so doing, they address such topics as the bifurcation theory of systems with time delay, analysis of chaotic dynamics, and the modeling of quantum transport. They also address chaos-based cryptography as an example of the technical application of highly nonlinear laser systems.
In this book, nonlinear silicon-organic hybrid waveguides and quantum dot semiconductor optical amplifiers are investigated. Advantageous applications are identified, and corresponding proof-of-principle experiments are performed. Highly nonlinear silicon-organic hybrid waveguides show potential for all-optical signal processing based on fourwave mixing and cross-phase modulation. Quantum dot semiconductor optical amplifiers operate as linear amplifiers with a very large dynamic range.
Nonlinear Optical Materials and Devices for Applications in Information Technology takes the reader from fundamental interactions of laser light in materials to the latest developments of digital optical information processing. The book emphasises nonlinear optical interactions in bulk and low-dimensional semiconductors, liquid crystals and optical fibres. After establishing the basic laser--material interactions in these materials, it goes on to assess applications in soliton propagation, integrated optics, smart pixel arrays and digital optical computing.
This thesis examines the unique properties of gallium arsenide (GaAs)-based quantum-dot semiconductor optical amplifiers for optical communication networks, introducing readers to their fundamentals, basic parameters and manifold applications. The static and dynamic properties of these amplifiers are discussed extensively in comparison to conventional, non quantum-dot based amplifiers, and their unique advantages are elaborated on, such as the fast carrier dynamics and the decoupling of gain and phase dynamics. In addition to diverse amplification scenarios involving single and multiple high symbol rate amplitude and phase-coded data signals, wide-range wavelength conversion as a key functionality for optical signal processing is investigated and discussed in detail. Furthermore, two novel device concepts are developed and demonstrated that have the potential to significantly simplify network architectures, reducing the investment and maintenance costs as well as the energy consumption of future networks.
Since its inception in 1966, the series of numbered volumes known as Semiconductors and Semimetals has distinguished itself through the careful selection of well-known authors, editors, and contributors. The "Willardson and Beer" Series, as it is widely known, has succeeded in publishing numerous landmark volumes and chapters. Not only did many of these volumes make an impact at the time of their publication, but they continue to be well-cited years after their original release. Recently, Professor Eicke R. Weber of the University of California at Berkeley joined as a co-editor of the series. Professor Weber, a well-known expert in the field of semiconductor materials, will further contribute to continuing the series' tradition of publishing timely, highly relevant, and long-impacting volumes. Some of the recent volumes, such as Hydrogen in Semiconductors, Imperfections in III/V Materials, Epitaxial Microstructures, High-Speed Heterostructure Devices, Oxygen in Silicon, and others promise that this tradition will be maintained and even expanded.Reflecting the truly interdisciplinary nature of the field that the series covers, the volumes in Semiconductors and Semimetals have been and will continue to be of great interest to physicists, chemists, materials scientists, and device engineers in modern industry.
Advances in Nonlinear Photonics combines fundamental principles with an overview of the latest developments. The book is suitable for the multidisciplinary audience of photonics researchers and practitioners in academia and R&D, including materials scientists and engineers, applied physicists, chemists, etc. As nonlinear phenomena are at the core of photonic devices and may enable future applications such as all-optical switching, all-optical signal processing and quantum photonics, this book provides an overview of key concepts. In addition, the book reviews the most important advances in the field and how nonlinear processes may be exploited in different photonic applications. - Introduces fundamental principles of nonlinear phenomena and their application in materials and devices - Reviews and provides definitions of the latest research directions in the field of nonlinear photonics - Discusses the most important developments in materials and applications, including future prospects
