Comprehensive modeling of vertical-cavity laser-diodes by the method of lines

A comprehensive numerical model for the analysis of vertical-surface emitting-lasers is presented. An optical, electrical, and thermal submodel are introduced. The complete analysis is based on the method of lines. The temperature distribution and the current density are calculated in the whole structure. The optical behavior is investigated with a full vectorial wave equation in cylindrical coordinates. Multimode effects are considered when calculating the optical output power. A rate equation for electrons and holes is used, which includes diffusion and recombination effects inside the quantum well. By combining all submodels a self consistent solution is found.