Re: SEARCH/I need some info please...

Doug Jones (random@qnet.com)
Tue, 20 Apr 1999 01:33:53 -0700

Gina Miller wrote:
>
> I need some links on information regarding an optics wavelength
> faster than blue light,

Ain't no such critter, c is c is c, to paraphrase Gertrude Stein (or was it GB Shaw?) You may be thinking of high frequency, short wavelengths?

> might make for multiGig CD and for much faster switching speed in
> Fiber networks, computer chip paths etc...

Short wavelengths do allow smaller spot sizes for diffraction-limited optics, and can support higher frequency modulation- *but* UV does not propagate through any optical materials well enough to be used in fiber transmission. The lowest losses are in the near IR at around 1100 to 1500 nm, and IR transmission is used exclusively despite visible light diode lasers being available.

Blue lasers based on gallium nitride are bleeding-edge tech even nowUV lasers will be even more painful.

> does anyone have any links or info?

Xerox PARC work on blue lasers:
http://www.idg.net/idg_frames/english/content.cgi?vc=docid_9-22058.html

Very detailed book on GaN laser diode research: http://www.eurotechnology.com/bluelaser/

--
Doug Jones, Rocket Plumber
Rotary Rocket Company