Compact wavelength multiplexer using optical-fiber pieces

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Fiber Optics Communications

Background:

• Traditional optical wavelength-division multiplexers often rely on bulky and expensive lens and mirror components.
• There is a need for more compact, lightweight, and cost-effective multiplexing solutions in optical communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel optical wavelength-division multiplexer (WDM) using multimode fibers.
• To demonstrate a cost-effective and compact WDM device suitable for optical communication.

Main Methods:

• Constructed a multiplexer using three multimode fiber pieces with dielectric multilayers on polished ends.
• Bonded fiber ends in a crossed V groove to combine two wavelengths (0.82 and 1.2 microm).
• Evaluated device performance including insertion loss and cross-talk.

Main Results:

• Achieved a compact (1 cm square) and lightweight (1.5-3 g) multiplexer.
• Demonstrated low insertion loss (1 dB) and excellent cross-talk suppression (below -40 dB).
• Estimated a potential cost reduction of one order of magnitude compared to conventional designs.

Conclusions:

• The developed fiber-based WDM offers a promising alternative to conventional bulk optical components.
• This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the cost and size of WDM devices.
• The device is suitable for integration into fiber optic communication systems requiring efficient wavelength multiplexing.