WDM Sources

Wavelength-selectable laser (WSL) sources are essential components for today's high channel-count DWDM systems, as well as tommorrow's all-optical networks. In this course, we will discuss the application requirements for these sources and compare the many possible approaches to making a practical WSL, from arrays of DFB lasers to multi-section tunable lasers. The emphasis will be on understanding the fundamental mechanisms of tunability and mode selection in semiconductor lasers, and how they relate to tuning range, output power, and long-term wavelength and mode stability. We will conclude with a brief surby of current research results and commercial offerings.