conventional edge-emitting semiconductor laser
Quick Summary
A conventional edge-emitting semiconductor laser is a device that emits light when an electric current passes through it. This emission occurs at the interface between two differently doped semiconductor regions, known as a p-n junction. Mirrors are placed on opposite edges of this junction, allowing light to oscillate and amplify within the junction plane, creating a laser beam.1
The specific wavelength of light emitted by these lasers depends on the semiconductor compound used. These compounds, often III-V compounds like gallium arsenide, can be mixed to precisely control the electrical and optical properties, enabling the production of lasers emitting light at various wavelengths. These lasers are widely used in applications such as compact disc players and as light sources for optical fiber communication systems.123
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