Abstract

Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VC-SELs) are generating considerable interest because of their potential for integration into 2-D arrays, inherent single-longitudinal-mode behavior, and narrow non-astigmatic output beams. It is, however, more difficult to control their transverse mode structure which can involve many high-order modes.1-2 Transverse-mode behavior of VCSELs is very poorly understood, mainly because little is known about transverse profiles of complex permittivity in these devices. In this paper we report on the first comprehensive study of factors that determine the waveguiding properties of VC-SELs. The analysis is performed using a new self-consistent thermal-electrical model of VC-SELs, featuring a realistic distribution of heat sources and two-dimensional current- and heat-flux spreading.

© 1991 Optical Society of America