In an embodiment, a laser chip includes a laser, an optical amplifier, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The laser includes an active region. The optical amplifier is integrated in the laser chip in front of and in optical communication with the laser. The first electrode is electrically coupled to the active region. The second electrode is electrically coupled to the optical amplifier. The first electrode and the second electrode are configured to be electrically coupled to a common direct modulation source.