Adaptive Quantum Design of Semiconductor Devices

A systematic approach towards optimal design of optoelectronic semiconductor devices has been developed. The adaptive design of excitonic absorption in broken-symmetry quantum wells has been used as a prototype system with which to explore the device synthesis method.

The device model used captured the basic exciton absorption physics but did not include RF design. Electro-absorption modulator designs were investigated experimentally and a modulator with 25 GHz small signal -3 dB response was measured near 1550 nm wavelength. This device has performance comparable to the best commercially available modulator from Oki electric. Further improvements to device performance could be achieved by improving RF design, in particular, incorporation of traveling wave electrodes. To become part of the semiconductor device synthesis procedure the physical model of the device should incorporate these and other aspects of RF design.