2.32 THz quantum cascade laser frequency-locked to the harmonic of a microwave synthesizer source

Opt Express. 2012 Dec 3;20(25):27908-14. doi: 10.1364/OE.20.027908.

Abstract

Frequency stabilization of a THz quantum cascade laser (QCL) to the harmonic of a microwave source has been accomplished using a Schottky diode waveguide mixer designed for harmonic mixing. The 2.32 THz, 1.0 milliwatt CW QCL is coupled into the signal port of the mixer and a 110 GHz signal, derived from a harmonic of a microwave synthesizer, is coupled into the IF port. The difference frequency between the 21st harmonic of 110 GHz and the QCL is used in a discriminator to adjust the QCL bias current to stabilize the frequency. The short-term frequency jitter is reduced from 550 kHz to 4.5 kHz (FWHM) and the long-term frequency drift is eliminated. This performance is compared to that of several other THz QCL frequency stabilization techniques.

MeSH terms

  • Electronics / instrumentation
  • Equipment Design
  • Lasers, Semiconductor*
  • Microwaves*
  • Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation
  • Terahertz Radiation*