Methodology for testing WDM laser arrays

The coming of age of wavelength-division-multiplexed (WDM) laser arrays is bringing new challenges in the testing of semiconductor lasers. Because of stringent requirements on the laser linewidths and their frequency stability and because of electrical, optical, and thermal crosstalk problems, a new methodology is required for evaluating the performance of WDM laser arrays. This paper describes techniques that will be used to test WDM laser arrays both cw and under pulsed conditions. The laser arrays for these studies will be procured under a new program called `The WDM Alliance' sponsored by BMDO/AFOSR. Preliminary data on monolithic WDM laser arrays are also presented in this paper.