High reliability 1.3 /spl mu/m InP based uncooled lasers in non-hermetic packages

There is an increasing demand for low cost optoelectronics for fiber-in-the-loop (FITL) and cable TV (CATV) system. The availability of a reliable, nonhermetic InP based uncooled laser and associated monitor diode could provide a significant cost reduction. In non-hermetic environment, degradation of laser performance usually occurs due to lack of proper passivation of the laser facet. Moisture and contaminants can diffuse through the laser facet passivation film, which in the presence of light, heat and bias energy sources react and corrode the facets.