Integrated tunable quantum-dot laser for optical coherence tomography in the 1.7 μm wavelength region

In this paper, we present the design and characterization of a monolithically integrated tunable laser for optical coherence tomography in medicine. This laser is the first monolithic photonic integrated circuit containing quantum-dot amplifiers, phase modulators, and passive components. We demonstrate electro-optical tuning capabilities over 60 nm between 1685 and 1745 nm, which is the largest tuning range demonstrated for an arrayed waveguide grating controlled tunable laser. Furthermore, it demonstrates that the active-passive integration technology designed for the 1550 nm telecom wavelength region can also be used in the 1600-1800 nm region. The tunable laser has a 0.11 nm effective linewidth and an approximately 0.1 mW output power. Scanning capabilities of the laser are demonstrated in a free space Michelson interferometer setup where the laser is scanned over the 60 nm in 4000 steps with a 500 Hz scan frequency. Switching between two wavelengths within this 60 nm range is demonstrated to be possible within 500 ns. © 2006 IEEE.