Precision and fast wavelength tuning of a dynamically phase-locked widely-tunable laser

We report a precision and fast wavelength tuning technique demonstrated for a digital-supermode distributed Bragg reflector laser. The laser was dynamically offset-locked to a frequency-stabilized master laser using an optical phase-locked loop, enabling precision fast tuning to and from any frequencies within a similar to 40-GHz tuning range. The offset frequency noise was suppressed to the statically offset-locked level in less than similar to 40 mu s upon each frequency switch, allowing the laser to retain the absolute frequency stability of the master laser. This technique satisfies stringent requirements for gas sensing lidars and enables other applications that require such well-controlled precision fast tuning. (C) 2012 Optical Society of America