Numerical statistics of power dropouts based on the Lang-Kobayashi model

The statistics of power dropouts in semiconductor lasers subjected to delayed optical feedback have been numerically investigated using the Lang-Kobayashi model. The data from the numerical simulations have then been used to calculate the probability distribution functions, mean values, and return maps of the time that elapses between dropouts. In addition, the transition from the "low frequency fluctuation" to the "coherence collapse" regime has also been investigated. The numerical simulations compare well with both experimental results, obtained from multilongitudinal mode lasers, and analytical results obtained from other theoretical models. Evidence of "excitability" within the Lang-Kobayashi model is also reported. [S1063-651X(99)16305-0].