Abstract
We report continuous-wave (CW) operation of quantum-cascade lasers (λ = 6 μm) up to a temperature of 313 K (40°C). The maximum CW optical output powers range from 212 mW at 288 K to 22 mW at 313 K and are achieved with threshold current densities of 2.21 and 3.11 kA/cm2, respectively, for a high-reflectivity-coated 12-μm-wide and 2-mm-long laser. At room temperature (298 K), the power output is 145 mW at 0.87 A, corresponding to a power conversion efficiency of 1.68%. The maximum CW operating temperature of double-channel ridge waveguide lasers mounted epilayer-up on copper heatsinks is analyzed in terms of the ridge width, which is varied between 12 and 40 μm. A clear trend of improved performance is observed as the ridge narrows.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 744-746 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | IEEE Photonics Technology Letters |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 2004 |
Keywords
- Continuous-wave (CW) lasers
- Infrared measurements
- Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs)
- Quantum-well lasers
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering