UCSB researchers achieve new vertical lasing technology

Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers offer a number of advantages in the manufacturing process over their horizontal-cavity brethren. In particular, vertical cavity lasers can be tested on-wafer, and can be detected and rejected early, saving valuable manufacturing costs. LED pioneer Shuji Nakamura and his UCSB group recently manufactured a vertical-cavity laser that is the first of its kind to emit light polarized in a particular direction. "This is the first report of a nonpolar VCSEL, which we believe to be one of the biggest breakthroughs in the field of laser diode technology," explained Nakamura. He added, "this device could be used for a variety of applications, such as lighting, displays, sensors, and technology that requires energy efficiency and small form-factor."