Reliable, single-mode, 100 mW operation of strained-layer InGaAs singl
e quantum well ridge waveguide lasers is demonstrated. The mean time t
o failure of coated, 5 mum wide lasers aged at constant current is ove
r 100 000 h at 25-degrees-C. Peak output power is 300 mW per facet, li
mited by thermal effects. The lasing wavelength is 980 nm. Preliminary
results of pumping an erbium-doped fiber laser are reported.