Analysis and demonstration of single-passband response and tuning characteristics in a chirped ladder interferometric filter for a widely tunable laser diode

We have designed and demonstrated a chirped ladder-type tunable filter and discussed its potential application for a tunable diode laser. A ladder interferometric filter normally has a periodic passband, which makes it impossible to stabilize laser oscillation frequency. To overcome this drawback, we have designed, fabricated, and characterized a novel chirped tunable ladder filter. We have successfully demonstrated a single-passband response in the fabricated device. Furthermore, a tuning operation of more than 30 nm was achieved by introducing a current injection structure and optimizing electrode lengths at each single-stage ladder interferometer.