Amplitude/phase modulation and spectrum of the vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser output

A new approach has been proposed for analysing the dynamics of the laser field amplitude on the basis of Maxwell's equations. This approach has been used to develop a theory for calculating modulation characteristics of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers in the small modulation limit. The present analysis allows one to sequentially examine the dynamics of the amplitude and phase of the electromagnetic field of light in the framework of a single physical model, proceeding from fundamental principles. The proposed approach offers a natural and unique procedure for finding all laser cavity parameters necessary for calculation. An analytical calculation in the 'small'-signal approximation has ensured good agreement with experimental data.