Phaselocking of a two-dimensional laser array with random detuning of eigenfrequencies

Abstract

This paper presents the results of analytical and numerical studies into synchronization of a large number of optically coupled resonators with random detuning of eigenfrequencies. The 'nearest-neighbor' coupling model with allowance made for gain saturation is considered. Assuming that the coupling coefficient has zero imaginary part, the problem of steady-state phase distribution over the aperture of the two-dimensional array reduces to the problem of temperature distribution in a two-dimensional medium in the presence of heat sources and coolers with random powers. It is shown that the steady-state phase distribution over the aperture has domainlike form. Phases in adjacent domains differ by values of the order of pi. Combining the scheme with nearest-neighbor coupling and external signal injection, it is easy to attain synchronous lasing from large arrays.