Superluminescent diodes (SLD)
A superluminescent diode (SLD) is a semiconductor device, generating amplified spontaneous emission over a broad spectrum when biased in the forward direction. Unlike lasers, SLDs have a broad optical spectrum, making them suitable for various applications. SLDs lack the feedback to achieve lasing action. The suppression of the optical feedback is achieved by a tilted waveguide and anti-reflective coatings with <0.001% reflectivity, which allow for significantly reducing spectrum ripples. The peak wavelength and intensity of SLDs depend on active material composition and injection current. Certain SLDs manufactured by Innolume demonstrate high output optical power, exceeding 250mW, low spectral ripples and a broad spectrum. The width of the optical spectrum is important as it affects coherence length. Broader spectrum width can be beneficial for certain applications. SLDs, characterized by a high degree of spatial coherence, are effective for coupling into single-mode optical fibers. Innolume provides various packaging options, offering 14-pin modules with the availability of PM/HI fiber types, a loose tube, and a photodiode. Also, Innolume has the capability to provide configurations with the chip mounted on a submount, chip on a heatsink (e.g. C-Mount), or in a TO can.
Key features of Superluminescent diodes (SLD)
- High Output Power: Capable of achieving output optical power exceeding 250mW.
- Broad Spectrum: Certain Innolume SLDs provide a spectrum width exceeding 100nm.
- Feedback Suppression: Tilted waveguides and anti-reflective coatings (<0.001% reflectivity) to reduce optical feedback and minimize spectrum ripples.
- Packaging Options: Various packaging configurations available, including 14-pin modules and chip placement options such as on a submount, on a heatsink, or in a TO can.
- Customization: Innolume has the capability to produce SLDs with specified wavelength and spectrum width based on customer requests.
Typical parameters of Superluminescent diodes (SLD)
SLD - main characteristics, features and application.
Superluminescent diodes (SLD) in essence are similar to laser diodes and operate based on electrically excited pn-junctions. When excited in the conductivity direction, this junction becomes optically active and generates amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) in a broad spectrum of wavelengths. The specific peak wavelength and intensity of SLD emission depend on the composition of the active material and the level of injected current. Unlike traditional laser diodes, SLDs are designed for high single-pass amplification of spontaneously emitted light along the waveguide, but they lack the necessary feedback to achieve laser action. This is efficiently achieved through a combination of tilted waveguides and anti-reflection coatings.
Our SLDs impress with their characteristics:
- High Light Quality: Our SLDs provide bright, uniform, and stable light, ideal for measurements, medical diagnostics, and other applications.
- Wide Spectral Range: From infrared to visible light our SLDs cover a broad spectral range, making them an excellent choice for various tasks.
- Reliability: We guarantee the durability and stability of our SLDs even under intensive use.
Superluminescent diodes (SLD) Applications:
Medical Diagnostics: From tissue scanning to optical coherence tomography, our SLDs are indispensable for accurate and reliable diagnostic systems.
Optical Measurements: Thanks to high light quality and stability, our SLDs are ideal for measuring various parameters in optical systems.
Superluminescent diodes (SLD) Features:
- High output power up to 300mW;
- Broad spectrum with up to 120nm bandwidth;
- Ultra-low ripples;
- Strong linear polarization;
- Individual burn-in and thermal cycling screening;
- Proprietary mirror coating technology enabling high reliability.
Superluminescent diodes (SLD) Applications:
- Fiber sensors;
- Spectroscopy;
- Instrumentation.
Why is Innolume the best solution for your project?
At Innolume, we take pride in our wide range of offerings, covering SLD technologies, quantum dot lasers, DBR/DFB lasers, and more. As a leading manufacturer of high-power GaAs-based SLDs, we have established ourselves as a reliable partner for clients in various sectors, including Datacom, medical services, research, and industrial applications.
Thanks to rigorous internal quality management processes, innovative approaches, and strict testing during development, we ensure that every SLD leaving our facilities meets the highest standards of excellence. Whether it's about precise engineering solutions or reliable performance, our SLDs excel in all aspects, outperforming many traditional light sources in both productivity and service life.
We understand that each project has its unique requirements. Therefore, we offer tailored solutions to address the specific needs of our clients. While we strive to initially provide optimal solutions, we are also ready to develop custom solutions for specialized applications, ensuring that our clients get exactly what they need for success.
Innolume is at the forefront of SLD technologies, delivering quality, durable, and customized solutions to meet the growing needs of our clients in various industries. Experience the difference with Innolume where innovation meets excellence. Contact us for further consultation.
