Abstract
Generation of short optical pulses in semiconductor lasers is of practical interest for an increasing number of applications. It is also of fundamental interest because of its tight relation with the field of semiconductor laser dynamics. After an introductory review, we compare the performances of gain-switching, Q-switching and mode-locking techniques. The comparison is illustrated by experimental results as well as by laser modelling, some of which are new. A special emphasis is given on the aspects of phase modulation in the semiconductor laser medium. Finally, we discuss some perspectives for further developments.