Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

The goal of the proposed research is to develop narrow line-width single and dual frequency photonic integration-capable multi-electrode surface-corrugated distributed feedback semiconductor lasers as sources. These lasers promise to meet the common needs of applications to precise optical measurement and high-resolution laser spectroscopy, coherent communications systems including Radio-over-Fibre, Radio Frequency-over-Glass, and on-board satellite communications that reflect the respective distinct business interests of the supporting organizations. The expected results include prototype quantum well and quantum dot lasers with ultra-narrow line widths. Packaged devices will be characterised and tested on the partners' hardware platforms. The research is innovative because it involves the design of novel electrode and cavity structures, nanostructured active media, fabrication using state-of-the-art methods with a route to low-cost volume manufacture; and a new approach to modeling and analysis of dynamical and noise performance. The project is important because the laser, if successful as a low-noise source of millimetre-wave carriers in the 60GHz domain, would represent a major breakthrough in microwave photonic technology. The project will contribute to strengthening the collaboration between Canadian industry, academia and government laboratory partners. It draws on the complementary strengths and infrastructure of the combined team, in semiconductor optoelectronic device development, hybrid integration and packaging and microwave photonic system architecture development. The research will contribute directly to providing sustainable broadband access to all, which is essential to economic, health and social well-being of societies. It will help position Canada as a world leader in wireless access technology and will create an opportunity for Canada to establish a dominant position in a rapidly expanding sector of the worldwide marketplace. Equally important, the research will develop highly qualified and skilled personnel, benefiting from an environment enriched by an international dimension, promoting effective knowledge transfer to industry and helping to fill their employment needs.