Tunable Diode Laser with Fast Line Selection

The objective of this SBIR proposal is to develop a digitally tunable diode laser capable of fast switching over a predefined set of spectral lines of desired wavelengths. An important application for such a laser is in optical spectroscopy for chemical sensing where the availability of several wavelengths that can be varied can significantly enhance the selectivity and sensitivity of the instrument. The optical arrangement is based on classical physics and can be demonstrated with commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components available from advances in Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). The Phase I effort is to provide bench top demonstration of the concept using COTS components. Specific efforts shall include charcterization of the diode laser and the specific MEMS and other optical components, and their integration to achieve the desired results. The Phase I results shall serve as the basis for the implementation of a stand-alone unit to be completed in Phase II for eventual commercialization.