Multimode Dynamics of a monolithically integrated, tunable, bidirectional gain switched optical comb source.

A Delay Differential equation model of a bidirectionally coupled two section comb source is investigated. The model consists of a single mode Primary Laser (PL) bidirectionally coupled to a single mode Secondary Laser (SL). Optical Frequency Combs (OFCs) are then generated in the SL via gain switching. An investigation into the impact of this gain switching frequency on the comb generated in each laser is then performed. Stable, well defined combs are obtained for modulation frequencies close to the Relaxation Oscillation Frequency (ROF) of the SL whilst poorly-defined, likely chaotic combs are produced when gain switching close to the ROF of the PL.