Comparative characterization of Polarization-Stable VCSELs: traditional rotating waveplate vs. advanced one-shot method

Polarized VCSELs represent a significant advancement in laser technology, emitting light with a specific polarization orientation crucial for various applications. This paper compares two measurement methods for polarization-stable VCSELs: the traditional rotating waveplate technique and an advanced one-shot solution using simultaneous recordings from multiple polarizers. 

We evaluate the accuracy, efficiency, and practicality of each method in measuring polarization characteristics, including the degree of polarization (DOP), angle of polarization (AOP), and polarization extinction ratio (PER). Experimental results highlight the one-shot solution's ability to provide comprehensive polarization data in a single capture, compared to the iterative rotating waveplate approach. Additionally, the one-shot solution measures other VCSEL parameters such as intensity and numerical aperture at the individual emitter level.