Influence of the incident optical field distribution on uni-traveling-carrier photodiode

The influence of incident optical field distribution on output performance of a uni-traveling-carrier photodiode (UTC-PD) is studied. It is found that the high-speed and saturation output performance can be affected by the optical field distribution. Under low incident optical power and back illumination conditions, the UTC-PD can achieve higher 3dB bandwidth with Gaussian light than uniform light. Under front illumination conditions, the UTC-PD cannot get good high-speed performance with Gaussian incident light at low bias voltage. Regardless of front or back illumination, the UTC-PD can achieve higher saturation output power with uniform incident light.

Automated summary

The study shows that the incident optical field distribution significantly affects the output performance of a UTC-PD. Under low power and back illumination, a Gaussian light can achieve a higher 3dB bandwidth, while under front illumination, it cannot achieve good high-speed performance at low bias voltage. Regardless of front or back illumination, a uniform light can achieve higher saturation output power.