Generation of Terahertz radiation with two color semiconductor lasers

Abstract

We discuss and analyze concepts for the generation of tuneable continuous wave terahertz (THz) radiation with two color diode lasers. First, different geometries of two color lasers are reviewed. We show that the THz power of two color lasers in combination with external photomixers becomes sufficient for scanning THz imaging applications when optical amplification with a tapered amplifier is implemented. Then, the concept of direct emission of THz radiation out of a two-color semiconductor laser is reviewed and the potential of this concept with respect to THz bandwidth and achievable THz power is critically analyzed. A figure is presented. Scheme of the FTECAL-laser cavity consisting of collimated laser diode, grating lens and mirror. © 2007 by Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.