Vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser technology applications with focus on sensors and three-dimensional imaging

Vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) diodes provide extraordinary properties like sub-mA threshold current, multi-GHz modulation capability, or relative intensity noise close to the quantum limit. VCSEL diodes have become a preferred light source for optical sensor technologies and imaging systems. The purpose is to review some recent developments with special attention to mass market employments and to reveal future applications. (c) 2018 The Japan Society of Applied Physics