vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser

technology

Also known as: VCSEL

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

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A vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) is a type of semiconductor laser. Unlike conventional edge-emitting lasers, VCSELs have mirrors positioned above and below the semiconductor junction, allowing light to resonate perpendicular to it. This design, utilizing nanoscale layers of compound semiconductors, quantum wells, and quantum dots, enhances efficiency and reduces the current needed for lasing. VCSELs are becoming increasingly important in communications technology due to their performance and compatibility with manufacturing processes.12

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laser
Types of lasers
Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) have mirrors above and below the p-n junction, so light resonates perpendicular to the junction. The wavelength depends on the semiconductor compound.
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Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) have mirrors above and below the p-n junction, so light resonates perpendicular to the junction. The wavelength depends on the semiconductor compound.
Read More

nanotechnology
Communications
…of optical devices, such as vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), quantum dot lasers, and photonic crystal materials, is leading to additional advances in communications technology.
Read More
…of optical devices, such as vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), quantum dot lasers, and photonic crystal materials, is leading to additional advances in communications technology.
Read More