Analog and Digital Functionalities of Composite-Resonator Vertical-Cavity Lasers

Different modulation approaches for the composite-resonator vertical-cavity laser are described, with an emphasis on direct modulation using either one or both cavities. It is also observed that the unique properties of this device form the basis for analog and digital functionalities. Experimental demonstrations are also shown of multilevel amplitude modulation, preemphasis for direct modulation, microwave signal mixing, and synchronous electrical and optical signaling, none of which can be achieved using a conventional vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser.