DESIGN OF A MULTISTRIPE ARRAY GRATING INTEGRATED CAVITY (MAGIC) LASER

We consider the design of a multistripe array grating integrated cavit y (MAGIC) laser based upon the Rowland circle solution for a circular grating. We discuss, in detail, the implementation of the MAGIC laser in the InP-based materials system for operation in the 1.5-mu m fiber band. Particular attention is given to optical aberrations and their c orrection. The optical considerations presented are also valid for oth er materials systems. Suitable device parameters are derived for the c ase of a laser that emits eight wavelengths with a 4-nm spacing across the spectral band 1530-1560 nm. Such a device is ideally suited for u se in wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) networks that employ erbiu m-doped fiber amplifiers.