Stevens, Peter John; (1990) Modelling, assessment and applications of multiple quantum well optical absorption modulators. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

This thesis describes a wide-ranging investigation of the multiple quantum well electroabsorption modulator, from the physical effect governing its operation to the systems in which it might be used. First, the important properties of the device are discussed and the parameters describing the modulation performance defined. A physical model for the field dependent absorption spectrum of quantum well material is developed and used to assess, understand and model the modulator operation. For realistic results this calculation includes the reduction in oscillator strength and the field-enhanced broadening mechanisms. These are inhomogeneous broadening mechanisms caused by well width fluctuations and field variations within the device. The theory is used to explain results from an experimental investigation into modulators of different well widths. Using the above model the optimal design of a non-resonant modulator is determined. It is found that in a transverse modulator, for operation at a particular voltage, there is an optimum thickness of device and this is used to investigate expected device performance. The work is briefly extended to embrace resonant devices such as the asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulator. Some applications of the modulator are then considered. The design of an optical interconnect for an electronic chip is investigated, with the intent of minimising the power dissipation for a optical link and comparing that dissipation with that of the equivalent electronic link. Finally, new fibre-optic architectures are proposed that utilise the functional duality of the MQW diode as both modulator and detector.

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