Dynamically controlled channel-to-channel switching in a full-band DS-DBR laser

This paper presents a detailed series of measurements and modeled results that demonstrate rugged switching in a full-band tunable laser between stable, wavelength locked ITU frequencies. During switching a monolithically integrated optical amplifier has been used as a shutter to achieve greater than 40 dB attenuation whilst the wavelength is being tuned. The interactions between the thermal distribution down the laser and the induced frequency deviations are investigated, and the residual frequency deviation of < 5 GHz is shown to be predominately thermal.