ZERO CHIRP QUANTUM-WELL ASYMMETRIC FABRY-PEROT REFLECTION MODULATORS OPERATING BEYOND THE MATCHING CONDITION

We demonstrate asymmetric Fabry-Perot reflection modulators using both InGaAs and GaAs quantum wells which operate beyond the matching condi tion and exhibit zero phase change (zero chirp) when switched. These d evices are structurally similar to devices which can operate before th e matching condition, and with incorporation of only a small etch step enable planar realization of zero phase change modulators operating b efore and beyond the matching condition which reflect 180-degrees out of phase. We also show how observation of the reflectivity spectrum ca n provide quick information about the voltage necessary to obtain this zero chirp behavior. These structures provide a basis for low chirp o ptical switching, beam steering, and spatial light modulation.