Abstract

A number of applications for high-power diode laser arrays exist, such as optical data storage, laser printing, and optical data processing, which allow enhanced operation by use of parallel, independently addressable channels. A monolithic linear array of AIGaAs diode lasers has been developed to address such applications. Pertinent considerations regarding the design, fabrication, and use of diode laser array sources include optical coupling, thermal interactions, and electrical cross talk between adjacent elements; uniformity of crystal growth; individual, independent electrical addressing of each diode; and collection and collimation of the output radiation from the laser elements. These issues are addressed, with specific examples discussed, including arrays of up to ten elements, separated by 150 µm, with each laser emitting in a fundamental spatial mode. Examples of such array based systems are shown, with particular emphasis on multichannel optical recording for high-data-rate data storage.

© 1985 Optical Society of America