Microphotons PL-VCSEL-1550-0-A81-CPSA 1550 nm Single-Mode Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL) without TEC

Overview

The Microphotons PL-VCSEL-1550-0-A81-CPSA is a high-stability, single-mode vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) engineered for precision optical communication and metrology applications operating at the telecommunications C-band wavelength of 1550 nm. Unlike edge-emitting lasers, this VCSEL employs a monolithic GaAsP/AlGaAs epitaxial structure grown via metalorganic vapor-phase epitaxy (MOVPE), enabling inherently low divergence, circular beam profile, and high polarization stability. The device operates without an integrated thermoelectric cooler (TEC), making it suitable for space-constrained or low-power systems where passive thermal management is preferred. Its emission characteristics—centered at 1550 nm with ±20 nm tunability via injection current—are optimized for compatibility with standard single-mode fiber (SMF-28E) and FC/APC connectors. Designed for robustness in laboratory and light industrial environments, the PL-VCSEL-1550-0-A81-CPSA delivers stable output power up to 0.7 mW with high electro-optical conversion efficiency (12% typ.) and narrow spectral linewidth (100 MHz), supporting coherent detection schemes and low-noise analog transmission.

Key Features

• Single longitudinal mode operation with side-mode suppression ratio (SMSR) ≥35 dB at threshold current (I = 2 mA)
• Narrow intrinsic linewidth of 100 MHz (measured at 0.5 mW output), enabling use in interferometric sensing and low-jitter digital links
• Low temperature sensitivity: wavelength drift coefficient of only 0.06 nm/K, minimizing active thermal stabilization requirements
• High-speed modulation capability with 0.10 GHz 3-dB bandwidth and sub-100 ps rise time (90 ps), compatible with OC-3 through OC-48 data rates
• Integrated photodiode (PD) for real-time power monitoring and closed-loop intensity control
• ESD-protected architecture rated to >2 kV (HBM), ensuring reliability during handling and integration
• Hermetically sealed TO-can package with SMF-28E fiber pigtail and FC/APC connector for low-reflection coupling

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PL-VCSEL-1550-0-A81-CPSA is designed for direct integration into optical test benches, fiber-optic sensor platforms, and telecom module assemblies. Its collimated, low-divergence output (10–25° full width at 1/e²) couples efficiently into standard single-mode fibers without additional optics. The device complies with IEC 60825-1:2014 for Class 1 laser safety when operated within specified current and temperature limits. While not certified to ITU-T G.694.1 or Telcordia GR-468-CORE, its spectral and electrical parameters align with industry expectations for uncooled 1550 nm sources used in access networks and passive optical networks (PON). For GLP/GMP-aligned validation workflows, the unit supports traceable calibration using NIST-traceable power meters and optical spectrum analyzers (OSAs) with resolution bandwidth ≤10 MHz.

Software & Data Management

This VCSEL operates as a standalone analog source and does not include embedded firmware or USB interfaces. Integration is performed via standard DC bias control (0–15 mA, 0.8–1.8 V forward voltage) and optional external photodiode feedback. For automated characterization, users may interface the device with programmable current sources (e.g., Keithley 2400/2450) and data acquisition systems compliant with IEEE 488.2 (GPIB) or USB-TMC protocols. All measured performance data—including L-I-V curves, spectral scans, and RIN spectra—can be exported in CSV or HDF5 format for post-processing in MATLAB, Python (NumPy/SciPy), or LabVIEW. Audit trails for calibration records and operational logs may be maintained in accordance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed in regulated environments.

Applications

• Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) interrogation systems requiring stable 1550 nm seeding
• Low-cost coherent receivers for short-reach metro and access networks
• Optical time-domain reflectometry (OTDR) reference sources
• Gas sensing platforms targeting methane (CH₄) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) absorption lines near 1550 nm
• Lab-scale demonstrations of wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) channel alignment
• Calibration sources for optical power meters and spectrometers operating in the C-band

FAQ

Is this VCSEL compatible with standard single-mode fiber?

Yes—the device is factory-pigtailed with SMF-28E fiber and terminated with an FC/APC connector, ensuring <−60 dB return loss and minimal modal noise.

What is the maximum allowable operating current?

The absolute maximum forward current is 15.0 mA; continuous operation above 10 mA requires careful thermal management to maintain chip temperature below +40 °C.

Can the wavelength be tuned without temperature control?

Yes—current tuning provides up to 2 nm shift per mA, enabling coarse wavelength adjustment across the 1530–1570 nm range without external TEC.

Does the device include a monitor photodiode?

Yes—an integrated back-facet photodiode enables real-time output power monitoring with typical responsivity of 0.08 A/W.

What is the recommended storage condition?

Store in a dry, inert environment at −40 to +125 °C; avoid condensation and mechanical shock during transit or long-term storage.