BC VCSELs for RF/Photonic Links

Bipolar cascade (BC) vertical-cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) of a type intended specifically for use in radio-frequency (RF)/photonic links have been demonstrated. As used here, “RF/photonic link” signifies a communication link in which, at the transmitter, the continuous-wave output of a laser is modulated with an RF (typically, a microwave) signal and the resulting modulated laser beam is conveyed via free space or an optical fiber to a receiver, where the RF signal is detected. RF/photonic links offer advantages for short-range, wide-band communications and for diverse functions involved in phased arraying of large microwave antennas.