ZERO CHIRP QUANTUM-WELL ASYMMETRIC FABRY-PEROT REFLECTION MODULATORS OPERATING BEYOND THE MATCHING CONDITION

We demonstrate asymmetric Fabry-Perot reflection modulators using both InGaAs and GaAs quantum wells which operate beyond the matching condition and exhibit zero phase change (zero chirp) when switched. These devices are structurally similar to devices which can operate before the matching condition, and with incorporation of only a small etch step enable planar realization of zero phase change modulators operating before and beyond the matching condition which reflect 180-degrees out of phase. We also show how observation of the reflectivity spectrum can provide quick information about the voltage necessary to obtain this zero chirp behavior. These structures provide a basis for low chirp optical switching, beam steering, and spatial light modulation.