Characteristics of cross-shaped polarization-switching vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers for dual-channel communications

Abstract

The polarization switching of a cross-shaped vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) for dual-channel communications is demonstrated. The polarization of the lasing output is controlled by the asymmetry in geometry of the device and direction of current injection. High output power ratio of over 5, between two orthogonal (perpendicular) polarization directions has been achieved. The lasing output of the device can be switched between two nearly orthogonal directions.