Array mode analysis of two-dimension phased arrays of vertical cavity surface emitting lasers

Abstract

The modal properties of two-dimensional phase-locked arrays of vertical cavity surface emitting (VCSE) lasers where the spatial coherency across the aperture comes from the evanescent coupling of the optical fields of the lasers were investigated. Typical two-dimensional arrays can be separated into three categories: the periodic array, the circular array and the centered polygonal array (or concentric circular array). It is shown that symmetry plays an important role in determining the array mode, and that the use of VCSE lasers gives a good longitudinal mode selection leading to dynamic single-mode operation. These results can be extended to a quantum box laser array to give better optical beam control.

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