Period-one oscillation for photonic microwave transmission using an optically injected semiconductorlaser

Optically injected semiconductor laser under periodone oscillation is investigated as a source for photonic microwave transmission over fiber. The period-one nonlinear dynamics of an optically injected laser is studied for the purpose of minimizing the microwave power penalty induced by chromatic dispersion. Over a large range of injection strengths and frequency detunings, we first obtain the mapping of the period-one oscillation characteristics, including the microwave frequency, the microwave power, and the single sideband (SSB) characteristics of the optical spectrum. By accounting for the fiber chromatic dispersion, we calculate its effect on the optical spectrum and the associated microwave power penalty. A mapping of the minimum microwave power deliverable after the maximum penalty is obtained. The system is shown to be least susceptible to the penalty when operated under strong injection with the frequency detuned above the Hopf bifurcation line. Microwave frequency beyond six times the relaxation resonance frequency can be effectively transmitted. © 2007 Optical Society of America.