Teaching laser dynamics and optical communication systems using a standard system simulator

Abstract

We introduce a new attractive approach for the teaching of the dynamic behavior of the semiconductor laser diode. This approach is based on the development of a lab experiment/assignment in which the student constructed a model for the laser diode behavior using a standard simulator. Once this model is developed it could be used with other simulator elements to study the static and dynamic characteristics of the laser diode. In addition, this model could be also integrated in a complete optical communication system to simulate its overall performance.