We describe integration of lasers and optical amplifiers at 1.3 &mgr;m wavelength. The effects of the residual mirror reflectivity at the amplifier front facet are discussed. Using photonic integration techniques very high coupling efficiency of light from the laser to the amplifier sections was observed, with current transfer efficiency (ratio of photocurrent to drive current) as high as 33%. The output light current characteristics of the laser have a slope efficiency higher than 2 mW/mA. This device may be used for digital modulation with very low rf power drive requirements. Modulation at 2 Gbit/s has been demonstrated.