Dynamic analysis of optical bistability in a multisection distributed-feedback laser diode

Abstract

Bistable laser diodes (BLDs) will play an important role as all-optical switching elements for future optical communications networks and computing systems. In this study, we report the optical bistability in a multisection distributed feedback laser diode (DFB-LD) using a split-step time-domain model. Simulation results show that the three-section DFB-LD works as a flip-flop in response to the set/reset optical pulse whose switching time is a few ns and whose switching energy is a few pJ.