Low-threshold and high-temperature operation of 1.55-μm self-aligned ridge-waveguide multiple-quantum-well lasers grown by chemical-beam epitaxy

Abstract
We describe a low-threshold, low-internal-loss, multiple-quantum-well ridge waveguide laser operating at 1.55-μm wavelength and grown by chemical-beam epitaxy. With a high-reflection coating applied to one facet, it can operate CW to 100 °C. The laser exhibits single transverse-mode output and 6-GHz bandwidth. Processing utilizes a combination of self-aligned reactive-ion etching and wet chemical etching. Nearly 100% threshold and quantum efficiency yield of devices in bar form was obtained as a result of the excellent material uniformity, precision process control, and process uniformity over the wafer. This suggests that the present laser may be a potential candidate for low-cost light source applications.