Abstract: A photodetector is provided with a high contrast grating (HCG) reflector first reflector that has a two dimensional periodic structure. The two dimensional structure is a periodic structure that is a symmetric structure with periodic repeating. The symmetrical structure provides that polarization modes of light are undistinguishable. A second reflector is in an opposing relationship to the first reflector. A tunable optical cavity is between the first and second reflectors. An active region is positioned in the cavity between the first and second reflectors. The photodetector is polarization independent. An MQW light absorber is included converts light to electrons.

Abstract: A dual usage HCG VCSEL detector is provided with a high contrast grating (HCG) reflector first reflector that has a two dimensional periodic structure. The two dimensional structure is a periodic structure that is a symmetric structure with periodic repeating. The symmetrical structure provides that polarization modes of light are undistinguishable. A second reflector is in an opposing relationship to the first reflector. A tunable optical cavity is between the first and second reflectors. An active region is positioned in the cavity between the first and second reflectors. The photodetector is polarization independent. An MQW light absorber is included converts light to electrons. A dual usage HCG VCSEL-detector includes a high contrast grating (HCG) reflector first reflector, and a second reflector in an opposing relationship to the first reflector. A tunable optical cavity is between the first and second reflectors. An active region is positioned in the cavity between the first and second reflectors.