Degenerate Distributed Feedback (DDFB) Laser

Brief Description

The DDFB laser introduces a novel feedback mechanism for enhanced frequency selectivity and stability in laser oscillation.

Full Description

The DDFB laser is a revolutionary advancement in laser technology, utilizing a dual grating structure to support four degenerate modes, offering stronger feedback and improved frequency selectivity compared to traditional DFB lasers. This innovative approach allows for single-mode lasing and higher efficiency, overcoming the limitations of conventional DFB lasers.

Suggested uses

• Optical fiber telecommunications 
• Wide band optical communications 
• Coherent communications systems 
• LIDAR technology 
• RF photonics 
• Precision metrology 
• Quantum technologies 
• Spectroscopy and sensing application

Advantages

• Enhanced frequency selectivity and stability
• Single-mode lasing with higher efficiency 
• Improved resistance to changes in intensity and phase due to spontaneous photon injection 
• More stable operation with respect to cavity terminations and environmental variations 
• Eliminates the need for defects within the cavity for stability, unlike DFB lasers 
• Greater amplitude sensitivity to some modulation effects, facilitating easier optical light modulation 
• Lower lasing threshold and narrower linewidth compared to conventional DFB lasers

Patent Status

Patent Pending

Related Materials

• T. Mealy and F. Capolino, "Degenerate Distributed Feedback Photonic Structure With Two Gratings Exhibiting Degenerate Band Edge," in IEEE Photonics Technology Letters, vol. 35, no. 4, pp. 187-190, 15 Feb.15, 2023, doi: 10.1109/LPT.2022.3215661