SEMICONDUCTOR-LASERS WITH OPTICAL-INJECTION AND FEEDBACK

In this review we discuss the theoretical framework needed for studyin g the dynamical behaviour of semiconductor lasers exposed to three kin ds of optical modulation. We start by a derivation of the single-mode rate-equations for the slowly varying complex electric field and the i nversion, and the necessary extensions for monochromatic optical injec tion and normal external optical feedback. The basic operating charact eristics of the solitary semiconductor laser are analysed, including l ight-current curves and their dependence on the spontaneous emission l evel, as well as the optical spectrum. The effect of monochromatic inj ection is discussed in terms of locking and non-locking dynamics, incl uding a thermodynamic potential for phase jumps. The basic ingredients for studying external optical feedback are given, including a derivat ion of the thermodynamic potential for phase-diffusion. After an intro duction on optical phase conjugation, the field rate-equation for feed back from a phase-conjugate mirror is derived.