Blue Laser Devices for Optical Data Storage

Abstract

Presently, optical data storage systems are based on the use of near infrared GaAIAs diode lasers operating at wavelengths of 780 - 830 nm. Substantial advances of the areal storage density are possible by using lasers in the blue - green wavelength range. Such blue - green laser sources can be developed by making use of nonlinear optical processes for frequency upconversion of existing state-of-the-art III-V semiconductor lasers. These approaches circumvent the severe fundamental material fabrication problems associated with the potential development of blue semiconductor injection lasers.