High-frequency polarization self-modulation in vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers

Abstract

Polarization self-modulation at frequencies up to 6 GHz is observed in a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser. This self-oscillation is observed when a portion of the laser output power is injected back into the laser after having rotated its polarization by 90° with respect to the initial laser polarization state. Our experiment demonstrates a simple technique for generating an ultrahigh frequency optical clock. New applications in optical storage are also envisioned.