Yokogawa optical spectrum analysers (OSAs) are proving essential for Vexlum, a manufacturer of External-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VECSELs) for quantum computers.
Ensuring that quantum computing fulfils its potential requires the deployment of special lasers able to keep emissions at an accurate wavelength in the visible or near-infrared (NIR) spectrums. With such lasers becoming increasingly complex to design and manufacture, the need for precise measurements over a wide wavelength range is essential.
Vexlum, based in Finland, is one of very few companies with the facilities, technology and expertise to manufacture Vertical External-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VECSELs) for quantum computers. The vital factor in quantum applications is the ability to emit light at a single frequency with an extremely narrow bandwidth. Generating this precise output means Vexlum’s technology must control the three main elements of a high-power laser system: the semiconductor gain, the optical pump and the external cavity.
The advantage of the Vexlum VECSEL is its single-module concept. This ‘three-in-one’ design offers several benefits, not least its compact size and simplicity in comparison with competing products. In addition, the Vexlum VECSEL produces higher optical power output than either an edge-emitting laser or a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL).
To emit light reliably at the specified wavelength of a quantum application, the VECSEL requires precise characterisation. However, quantum applications operate at many different wavelengths.
Vexlum selects Yokogawa OSAs
Vexlum overcomes these challenges by relying on Yokogawa’s optical spectrum analysers (OSAs), which combine two capabilities: ultra-precise (<1 nm) wavelength measurements that minimise uncertainty and assure the test engineer of conformance to a quantum application’s tight wavelength specification; and a wide wavelength range from visible light up to 1700 nm. By using an OSA with these attributes, Vexlum not only achieves effective characterisation of its VECSELs, but also avoids the need to maintain multiple test systems.
The easy-to-use AQ6370E OSA provides a wavelength range of 600 nm to 1700 nm, supported by a typical wavelength measurement accuracy of ±0.015 nm and 0.02 nm resolution. For detailed analysis of VECSEL emissions, the AQ6370E features a high-resolution HCDR (High Close-in Dynamic Range) mode that sharpens the spectrum around the peak and provides a clearer visual representation of the side modes than is possible in standard mode.
Jussi-Pekka Penttinen, Vexlum’s CEO, CTO and co-founder, commented: “Put simply, we’re not able to verify the performance of VESCELs without the Yokogawa AQ6370E OSA – it’s essential for precise characterisation throughout our R&D and production,” he says. “It’s not only the performance and wavelength range of the OSA that meet our requirements, we also really like its usability. Moreover, the scope it provides to automate test operations enables us to maximise productivity in our laboratory and factory.”
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