We present a novel semiconductor laser structure, the microstrip laser
, where the epitaxial laser layers sit directly above a thick gold lay
er, instead of on a conventional semiconductor substrate, This design
provides advantages for both high frequency and high-power performance
compared to conventional ridge waveguide structures. Results indicati
ve of an improved structure are presented, including a factor of 3 red
uction in the thermal resistance of the microstrip laser compared to a
conventional laser.