Explanation of timing jitter mechanisms in multisegment mode-locked semiconductor lasers

Multisegment mode-locked semiconductor lasers offer a simple, high performance solution for short pulse generation. Six mode-locking techniques used in multisegment mode-locked semiconductor lasers are shown. This paper concentrates on a theoretical explanation of the timing jitter mechanisms in these lasers with supporting experimental measurements. The analysis covers passive, hybrid, and active mode-locking techniques for both monolithic and external cavity devices. Timing jitter is a very important system consideration for most applications of mode-locked lasers