Wide-range tunability of GaInP-AlGaInP DFB lasers with superstructure gratings

Wide range wavelength tuning is demonstrated for short wavelength GaInP-AlGaInP distributed feedback lasers by controlling the injection currents in a two-section laser. Simple superstructure gratings were used to tune the emission wavelength over 4.9 nm in the 690-nm emission range. In a combination of current and temperature variation, the tuning range could be increased to more than 12 nm.