Modeling of mode control and noise in self-pulsating PhaseCOMB lasers

Self-pulsations (SPs) in phase-controlled mode beating lasers (PhaseCOMB) are very attractive for all-optical clock recovery at ultra-high bit rates. In this paper, we apply the comprehensive simulation tool Longitudinal Dynamics in Semiconductor Lasers, developed by us, for studying the SP features of PhaseCOMB lasers, considering the effects of spontaneous emission noise, longitudinal spatial hole burning, and gain dispersion. In particular, the importance of mode control for adjusting the PhaseCOMB operating conditions is pointed out. The simulation results are confirmed by measurements on fabricated devices.