Frequency Response Measurements for Mirror Image Asymmetric Multiple Quantum-Well Lasers

A comparison of measurements of the frequency response characteristics of mirror image asymmetric multiple quantum-well (AMQW) lasers is presented in this paper. Conclusions on the carrier transport were drawn from these measurements, which are significant for the design of both AMQW and standard devices. The effective resonance frequency trend with current derived from these measurements shows no significant difference for several mirror image structures. It is thought that this is because of a very fast inter-well transport time in these devices. There was also no significant difference in the temperature dependence of the effective resonance frequency for these mirror image structures. This indicates that temperature-dependent transport mechanisms such as carrier capture and escape have little effect on the resonance frequency of these structures. These trends provide support for an analytic equation for the resonance frequency of AMQW structures that is independent of well position and carrier transport times. These results are important for designing AMQW lasers for high-speed applications.