Using whispering gallery modes in semiconductor microdevices

We discuss whispering gallery modes and their use in semiconductor microsphere devices. In particular, we focus on the operation of a single quantum-dot-microsphere laser and a semiconductor microsphere bistable element. Expressions for the effective mode volume and the evanescent field outside the microsphere are obtained. When considering a single quantum dot on a quartz microsphere we demonstrate the laser threshold condition and possible methods for reaching higher excitation conditions. Even in the case when lasing is not achieved this system can serve as a spectroscopic device to study the physical properties of the quantum dots themselves. When using semiconductor microspheres as bistable elements, we find that the bistability condition, the bistable contrast ratio, and the required power for transition all compare favorably with other bistable elements described in the literature. An effect of a frequency bistability is discussed. It can be realized by using of QD-ensemble. Copyright 1999 by MANK "Haya/Interperiodica".

Using whispering gallery modes in semiconductor microdevices Academic Article