Synchronization properties of two self-oscillating semiconductor lasers subject to delayed optoelectronic mutual coupling

Abstract

We theoretically investigate the nonlinear dynamics and synchronization properties between two mutually coupled semiconductor lasers units. Each unit can self-oscillate by means of delayed optoelectronic feedback loops. The mutual optoelectronic interactions between the laser units take into account the finite propagation time of the signals. Under perfectly symmetric conditions, we find different "death by delay" islands that persist for instantaneous coupling. The appearance of (zero lag) isochronous chaotic synchronization, under appropriate driving conditions, is another distinctive feature of the delayed feedback loops in the laser units. For slightly asymmetric operation, we obtain frequency locked bands (Arnold Tongue) whose width periodically changes with the coupling delay time.