Charles A Burrus, Jr

Title: Charles A. Burrus, Jr.: Innovator in Semiconductor Laser Technology

Introduction

Charles A. Burrus, Jr. is a renowned inventor based in Fair Haven, NJ, United States, holding an impressive portfolio of five patents. His work primarily focuses on advancements in semiconductor laser technology, which have significant implications for various applications, particularly in communications.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, Burrus has developed notable technologies, including the "Fabrication of Cleaved Semiconductor Lasers." This innovative process allows for the production of semiconductor lasers with cleaved facets that serve as end mirrors. By electrochemically photoetching deep, narrow slots in a wafer, Burrus’s technique enables stress application to cleave the wafer effectively. The result is exceptionally short semiconductor lasers, exceeding 25 μm in length, which are incredibly beneficial for communication applications. Notably, the process is designed to require minimal skill, thus yielding high-quality lasers with impressive consistency.

Another significant patent from Burrus is the "Short Coupled Cavity Laser." This technology achieves single longitudinal mode operation under continuous wave (CW) and high-speed current modulation conditions. It consists of a short cavity semiconductor laser with two parallel mirror facets and a reflective surface positioned appropriately to form a short external cavity resonator. The effective optical length of the injection laser is intricately connected to the external cavity length, optimizing performance for high-speed applications.

Career Highlights

Burrus's career includes valuable experience at notable institutions like AT&T Bell Laboratories and Bell Telephone Laboratories. His contributions to these organizations have paved the way for advancements in semiconductor technologies, demonstrating his integral role in the field of optical communications.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Burrus has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Julian Stone and Tien P. Lee. Together, they have contributed to significant breakthroughs in semiconductor laser technologies, enhancing operational capabilities in communication systems.

Conclusion

Charles A. Burrus, Jr. stands out as an influential inventor whose patents have transformed semiconductor laser manufacturing and application. His innovative approaches enhance communication technologies and emphasize the importance of skilled collaboration in engineering remarkable advancements in the field.