Description:
Optical-feedback-stabilized semiconductor frequency combs
(Princeton Docket # 19-3580)
Inventors: Gerard Wysocki, Jonas Westberg, Chu Teng
The optical-feedback-stabilized semiconductor frequency comb is a breakthrough technology that dramatically enhances the stability and operational range of chip-scale laser frequency combs. By integrating a simple, external optical feedback mechanism, this innovation enables robust, low phase-noise comb operation without the need for complex device-level modifications or costly radio-frequency (RF) stabilization electronics. This optical-feedback-stabilized frequency comb technology provides a simple, scalable, and cost-effective solution for achieving robust, low-noise operation in semiconductor laser frequency combs. It overcomes longstanding barriers in the field, enabling new applications and accelerating the adoption of chip-scale frequency combs beyond laboratory environments.
The technology uses an external cavity-formed by adding at least one partially reflective surface to the laser system-to re-inject filtered light back into the semiconductor laser. This stabilizes the frequency comb, reducing phase noise and enabling operation in regimes previously prone to instability.
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APPLICATIONS
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ADVANTAGES
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- High-precision spectroscopy (including dual-comb spectroscopy)
- Optical frequency metrology
- Environmental and industrial sensing
- Portable and battery-powered photonic systems
- Any application requiring stable, broadband, chip-scale frequency combs
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- No complex electronics needed: Stabilizes frequency combs without electronic feedback loops.
- Improved stability: Significantly reduces phase noise for reliable operation.
- Cost-effective and simple: Uses standard optical components with no intricate modifications.
- Broad compatibility: Works with various semiconductor laser types.
- Flexible and tunable: Easily adjustable external cavity parameters.
- Scalable and compact: Ideal for miniaturized, portable devices.
- Enables advanced applications: Supports high-precision spectroscopy and sensing.
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Stage of Development
Experimentally Validated Prototype
Publication
Optical-feedback-stabilized quantum cascade laser frequency combs
Contact
Renee Sanchez
New Ventures & Licensing Associate • (609) 258-6762 • renee.sanchez@Princeton.edu
