Research Progress of Monolithic Integrated DFB Laser Arrays for Optical Communication

Abstract

Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) play a leading role in modern information and communications technology. Among the core devices in PICs is the distributed feedback (DFB) multi-wavelength semiconductor laser array. Multi-wavelength semiconductor laser arrays can be integrated on a single chip and have the advantages of high stability, good single-mode performance, and narrow line width. The wavelength tuning range has been expanded through the design of the DFB laser array, which is an ideal light source for wavelength-division multiplexing systems. The preparation of DFB laser arrays with a large number of channels, ease of mass production, and accurate emission wavelengths has become an important field of research. The connection methods of lasers in DFB laser arrays are introduced systematically and the current methods of manufacturing multi-wavelength DFB laser arrays covering the perspective of technical principles, technical advantages and disadvantages, main research progress, and research status are summarized.