LASER DIODES

ECE 4124 OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS

MUHAMMAD SYAHIRAN BIN SURAINI
1019271

Outline
Introduction

Theory operation
Characteristics
Applications
Conclusion

Introduction
It is an electrically pumped semiconductor laser in which

the active medium is formed by a p-n junction of a

semiconductor similar to that found in a light-emitting
diode.
It is also known as an injection laser or diode laser, is
a semiconductor device that produces coherent radiation
in the visible or infrared (IR) spectrum
when current passes through it.
Laser diodes are used in optical fiber systems, compact
disc (CD) players, laser printers, remote-control devices,
and intrusion detection systems.

Theory operation
A population of Inversion Electrons is

produced by applying a voltage

across its p-n junction.
Laser beam is available from the
semiconductor region.
The p-n junction of laser diode has
polished ends so that, the emitted
photons reflect back and forth and
creates more electron-hole pairs.
The photons thus generated will be in
phase with the previous photons.
This will give a Pencil Beam and all
the photons in the beam are Coherent
and in phase.
Fig 1. Theory operation

Characteristics
Laser diode L/I characteristic
used to determine the current required to obtain a particular level of
light output at a given current.
It can be seen that there is a
threshold current below
which the laser action does
not take place.
The laser diode should be
operated clear of this point to
ensure reliable operation
over the full operating
temperature range as the
threshold current rises with
increasing temperature.
Fig 2 Laser diode L/I characteristics

 Reverse voltage specification

Laser diodes are easily damaged by reverse voltages. It is
therefore unwise to allow the laser diode to be reverse biased.

Laser diode far-field beam pattern

The light emanating from the diode itself is not collimated, but it
is typically in the form of an oval cone of light.
Typical values are 30 and 12 for the two angles of the elliptical
cone.
Laser diode wavelength specification
It will determine many of the applications for which the laser
diode can be used. The wavelength is normally specified in nm nanometres.
Changes in temperature affect the bandgap, and hence the gain
frequency profile of the junction.

Applications

Fig 3. The appropriate diode laser product line

associated with a specific diode laser application.

Hardening and Heat Treatment

diode lasers can be used to harden the material in much
localized areas, so that only the stress zones of a part are
hardened; thus used in steel and cast iron for tool
manufacturing.

Fig 4. The result of

hardening

Plastic Welding
laser combines the advantages of non-contact welding, without
forming fluff or excess melting, with the ability of a measurable
setting path.

Fig. 5. One of example of

using plastic welding-car
remote

Brazing
For joining of metal components.
In the automotive industry, laser brazing is used for joining the
visible, external parts of vehicles, for example trunk lid, roof seams,
doors or C pillars.

Fig. 6. Brazing used in

automotive industry

Conclusion
Laser diodes are used in all areas of electronics from

domestic equipment, through commercial applications to

hash industrial environments.
Laser diodes are able to provide a cost effective solution
while being rugged and reliable and offering a high level
of performance.