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Zhao Y, Jang JK, Beals GJ, McNulty KJ, Ji X, Okawachi Y, Lipson M, Gaeta AL. All-optical frequency division on-chip using a single laser. Nature 2024; 627:546-552. [PMID: 38467896 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07136-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The generation of spectrally pure microwave signals is a critical functionality in fundamental and applied sciences, including metrology and communications. Optical frequency combs enable the powerful technique of optical frequency division (OFD) to produce microwave oscillations of the highest quality1,2. Current implementations of OFD require multiple lasers, with space- and energy-consuming optical stabilization and electronic feedback components, resulting in device footprints incompatible with integration into a compact and robust photonic platform3-5. Here we demonstrate all-optical OFD on a photonic chip by synchronizing two distinct dynamical states of Kerr microresonators pumped by a single continuous-wave laser. The inherent stability of the terahertz beat frequency between the signal and idler fields of an optical parametric oscillator is transferred to a microwave frequency of a Kerr soliton comb, and synchronization is achieved via a coupling waveguide without the need for electronic locking. OFD factors of N = 34 and 468 are achieved for 227 GHz and 16 GHz soliton combs, respectively. In particular, OFD enables a 46 dB phase-noise reduction for the 16 GHz soliton comb, resulting in the lowest microwave noise observed in an integrated photonics platform. Our work represents a simple, effective approach for performing OFD and provides a pathway towards chip-scale devices that can generate microwave frequencies comparable to the purest tones produced in metrological laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhao
- Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jae K Jang
- Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Garrett J Beals
- Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karl J McNulty
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xingchen Ji
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- John Hopcroft Center for Computer Science, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China
| | - Yoshitomo Okawachi
- Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Xscape Photonics Inc., New York, NY, USA
| | - Michal Lipson
- Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander L Gaeta
- Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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2
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Liu Z, Qin B, Shi Z, Wang X, Lv Q, Wei X, Huan R. Nonlinearity-Induced Asymmetric Synchronization Region in Micromechanical Oscillators. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:238. [PMID: 38398967 PMCID: PMC10891831 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Synchronization in microstructures is a widely explored domain due to its diverse dynamic traits and promising practical applications. Within synchronization analysis, the synchronization bandwidth serves as a pivotal metric. While current research predominantly focuses on symmetric evaluations of synchronization bandwidth, the investigation into potential asymmetries within nonlinear oscillators remains unexplored, carrying implications for sensor application performance. This paper conducts a comprehensive exploration employing straight and arch beams capable of demonstrating linear, hardening, and softening characteristics to thoroughly scrutinize potential asymmetry within the synchronization region. Through the introduction of weak harmonic forces to induce synchronization within the oscillator, we observe distinct asymmetry within its synchronization range. Additionally, we present a robust theoretical model capable of fully capturing the linear, hardening, and softening traits of resonators synchronized to external perturbation. Further investigation into the effects of feedback strength and phase delay on synchronization region asymmetry, conducted through analytical and experimental approaches, reveals a consistent alignment between theoretical predictions and experimental outcomes. These findings hold promise in providing crucial technical insights to enhance resonator performance and broaden the application landscape of MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghua Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Z.L.); (B.Q.)
| | - Bingchan Qin
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Z.L.); (B.Q.)
| | - Zhan Shi
- Department of Mechanics, Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China;
| | - Xuefeng Wang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, MIIT Key Laboratory of Dynamics and Control of Complex Systems, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China;
| | - Qiangfeng Lv
- Department of Mechanics, Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China;
- Huanjiang Laboratory, Zhuji 311800, China
| | - Xueyong Wei
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China;
| | - Ronghua Huan
- Department of Mechanics, Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China;
- Huanjiang Laboratory, Zhuji 311800, China
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Moreno D, Fujii S, Nakashima A, Lemcke D, Uchida A, Sanchis P, Tanabe T. Synchronization of two chaotic microresonator frequency combs. OPTICS EXPRESS 2024; 32:2460-2472. [PMID: 38297775 DOI: 10.1364/oe.511097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
We explore the synchronization of chaotic microresonator frequency combs, emphasizing the modulation instability state, which is known for its inherent chaotic behaviors. Our study confirms that the synchronization of two such combs is feasible by injecting the output from the lead microresonator into the next microresonator's input. We also identify the optimal parameters for this synchronization. Remarkably, even partial injection from the leader is sufficient for synchronization, paving the way for versatile future system configurations. Such systems could simultaneously utilize distinct spectral components for synchronization and transmission. This work advances our understanding of chaotic microresonator combs, showing them to be pivotal elements in next-generation optical communication systems.
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Wu X, Peng J, Boscolo S, Finot C, Zeng H. Synchronization, Desynchronization, and Intermediate Regime of Breathing Solitons and Soliton Molecules in a Laser Cavity. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2023; 131:263802. [PMID: 38215378 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.131.263802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
We report on the experimental and numerical observations of synchronization and desynchronization of bound states of multiple breathing solitons (breathing soliton molecules) in an ultrafast fiber laser. In the desynchronization regime, although the breather molecules as wholes are not synchronized to the cavity, the individual breathers within a molecule are synchronized to each other with a delay (lag synchronization). An intermediate regime between the synchronization and desynchronization phases is also observed, featuring self-modulation of the synchronized state. This regime may also occur in other systems displaying synchronization. Breathing soliton molecules in a laser cavity open new avenues for the study of nonlinear synchronization dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuqi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Spectroscopy, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Junsong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Spectroscopy, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Extreme Optics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Precision Optics, Chongqing Institute of East China Normal University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Sonia Boscolo
- Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, United Kingdom
| | - Christophe Finot
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire Carnot de Bourgogne, UMR 6303 CNRS-Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21078 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Heping Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Spectroscopy, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire Carnot de Bourgogne, UMR 6303 CNRS-Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21078 Dijon Cedex, France
- Shanghai Research Center for Quantum Sciences, Shanghai 201315, China
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Liu M, Dang Y, Huang H, Lu Z, Mei S, Cai Y, Zhou W, Zhao W. Vector solitonic pulses excitation in microresonators via free carrier effects. OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 31:32172-32187. [PMID: 37859026 DOI: 10.1364/oe.498671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
We numerically investigate the excitation of vector solitonic pulse with orthogonally polarized components via free-carrier effects in microresonators with normal group velocity dispersion (GVD). The dynamics of single, dual and oscillated vector pulses are unveiled under turn-key excitation with a single frequency-fixed CW laser source. Parameter spaces associated with detuning, polarization angle, interval between the pumped orthogonal resonances and pump amplitude have been revealed. Different vector pulse states can also be observed exploiting the traditional pump scanning scheme. Simultaneous and independent excitation regimes are identified due to varying interval of the orthogonal pump modes. The nonlinear coupling between two modes contributes to the distortion of the vector pulses' profile. The free-carrier effects and the pump polarization angle provide additional degrees of freedom for efficiently controlling the properties of the vector solitonic microcombs. Moreover, the crucial thermal dynamics in microcavities is discussed and weak thermal effects are found to be favorable for delayed vector pulse formation. These findings reveal complex excitation mechanism of solitonic structures and could provide novel routes for microcomb generation.
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Okawachi Y, Kim BY, Zhao Y, Jang JK, Ji X, Lipson M, Gaeta AL. Active tuning of dispersive waves in Kerr soliton combs. OPTICS LETTERS 2022; 47:2234-2237. [PMID: 35486768 DOI: 10.1364/ol.456609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Kerr soliton combs operate in the anomalous group-velocity dispersion regime through the excitation of dissipative solitons. The generated bandwidth is largely dependent on the cavity dispersion, with higher-order dispersion contributing to dispersive-wave (DW) generation that allows for power enhancement of the comb lines at the wings of the spectrum. However, the spectral position of the DW is highly sensitive to the overall cavity dispersion, and the inevitable dimension variations that occur during the fabrication process result in deviations in the DW emission wavelength. Here, we demonstrate active tuning of the DW wavelength, enabling post-fabrication spectral shaping of the soliton spectrum. We control the DW position by introducing a wavelength-controllable avoided mode crossing through actively tuning the resonances of a silicon nitride coupled microresonator via integrated heaters. We demonstrate DW tuning over 113 nm with a spectral power that can exceed the peak soliton spectral power. In addition, our modeling reveals buildup and enhancement of the DW in the auxiliary resonator, indicating that the mode hybridization arising from the strong coupling between the two resonators is critical for DW formation.
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Yu T, Jiang S, Fang J, Liu T, Wu X, Yan M, Huang K, Zeng H. Passive repetition-rate stabilization for a mode-locked fiber laser by electro-optic modulation. OPTICS LETTERS 2022; 47:1178-1181. [PMID: 35230321 DOI: 10.1364/ol.450771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We report a passive stabilization of the repetition rate for a mode-locked fiber laser by using an electro-optic modulator in a phase-biased nonlinear amplifying loop mirror. The underlying mechanism, in contrast to active feedback operations, lies in the cross-phase modulation between electrical and optical pulses within an electro-optic crystal. The resulting spectral shift can automatically compensate for the cavity-length drift via the group velocity dispersion. Consequently, the artificial actuator enables a capture range up to 2.3 mm, much longer than that achieved by index changes of the modulator. A robust and tight locking for the repetition rate is then realized with a standard deviation as low as 9 μHz with a 1-s sample time over 11 hours, corresponding to a fractional instability of 4.3 × 10-13. Furthermore, a dynamic optical sampling by repetition-rate tuning has been manifested with a fast refresh rate at 100 kHz and a broad scanning range over 305 ps. The demonstrated passive servo action may provide a simple yet effective way to stabilize the repetition rate with high precision, large bandwidth, and wide tunability.
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