Harnessing the capabilities of VCSELs: unlocking the potential for advanced integrated photonic devices and systems

Guanzhong Pan; Meng Xun; Xiaoli Zhou; Yun Sun; Yibo Dong; Dexin Wu

doi:10.1038/s41377-024-01561-8

journal article Open Access Sep 03, 2024

Harnessing the capabilities of VCSELs: unlocking the potential for advanced integrated photonic devices and systems

Guanzhong Pan Meng Xun Xiaoli Zhou

Yun Sun Yibo Dong

Dexin Wu

Light: Science & Applications Vol. 13 No. 1 · Springer Science and Business Media LLC

View at Publisher Save 10.1038/s41377-024-01561-8

Abstract

AbstractVertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) have emerged as a versatile and promising platform for developing advanced integrated photonic devices and systems due to their low power consumption, high modulation bandwidth, small footprint, excellent scalability, and compatibility with monolithic integration. By combining these unique capabilities of VCSELs with the functionalities offered by micro/nano optical structures (e.g. metasurfaces), it enables various versatile energy-efficient integrated photonic devices and systems with compact size, enhanced performance, and improved reliability and functionality. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art versatile integrated photonic devices/systems based on VCSELs, including photonic neural networks, vortex beam emitters, holographic devices, beam deflectors, atomic sensors, and biosensors. By leveraging the capabilities of VCSELs, these integrated photonic devices/systems open up new opportunities in various fields, including artificial intelligence, large-capacity optical communication, imaging, biosensing, and so on. Through this comprehensive review, we aim to provide a detailed understanding of the pivotal role played by VCSELs in integrated photonics and highlight their significance in advancing the field towards efficient, compact, and versatile photonic solutions.

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Published: Sep 03, 2024
Vol/Issue: 13(1)
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Cite This Article

Guanzhong Pan, Meng Xun, Xiaoli Zhou, et al. (2024). Harnessing the capabilities of VCSELs: unlocking the potential for advanced integrated photonic devices and systems. Light: Science & Applications, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41377-024-01561-8

Harnessing the capabilities of VCSELs: unlocking the potential for advanced integrated photonic devices and systems

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