Numerical simulation and analysis of single section Quantum Dot lasers for optical comb generation

Abstract

We have developed a Time Domain Travelling Wave numerical model to study single section Fabry-Perot Quantum Dot lasers and we apply it to study if, and how, these lasers can emit an optical comb spectrum. Our analysis reveals that the gain compression factor (typically high in the case of QD lasers) can explain the origin of the phase locking of the modes and can enable the pulse formation in the FP cavity. We also discuss how the interplay between homogeneous and inhomogeneous gain broadening affects the shape and the stability of the emitted pulses.