Low-Threshold Pump Power and High Integration in Al2O3 : Er^3+ Slot Waveguide Lasers on SOI.

We numerically investigate the potential of Al2O3 : Er^3+ active slot waveguides for realizing small-form factor lasers on silicon-on-insulator. Based on recent technological improvements in the reliable and low-cost fabrication of alumina doped with high Er^3+ concentration, we point out the possibility of realizing silicon compatible emitters at 1.55 \mum, optically pumped at 1480 nm with a few milliwatts threshold pump power. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]