Enhanced wavelength tuning of an InGaAsP-InP laser with a thermal-strain-magnifying trench

We have used temperature-dependent strain from differential thermal expansion to increase the temperature tuning rate, d lambda/dT, of the modal wavelength of an InP-based laser. The effectiveness of the strain may be further enhanced with a deep trench etch beneath the laser waveguide. We have obtained a 50% increase in the tuning rate, without degradation of the threshold current, and a maximum increase of 86%. (C) 2000 American Institute of Physics. [S0003-6951(00)00243-6].