InP monolithically integrated wavelength selector based on periodic optical filter and optical switch chain

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• Integrated Optics
• Semiconductor Devices

Background:

• Efficient selection of multiple optical wavelengths is crucial for advanced communication systems.
• Existing wavelength selection methods often lack speed, reconfigurability, or monolithic integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel monolithic indium phosphide (InP) wavelength selector.
• To demonstrate a binary search-based approach for selecting multiple modulated wavelengths.
• To achieve nanosecond reconfigurable operation with high performance.

Main Methods:

• Monolithic integration of an active Mach-Zehnder interferometer filter on InP.
• Implementation of a binary search algorithm for wavelength selection.
• Utilizing broadband optical gating elements for filter control.

Main Results:

• Achieved nanosecond reconfigurable operation for wavelength selection.
• Demonstrated a spectral alignment over a 3.2 nm free spectral range.
• Obtained an extinction ratio exceeding 25 dB.
• Showcased error-free operation for four modulated wavelengths with a 2 dB power penalty.

Conclusions:

• The developed InP wavelength selector offers high-speed, reconfigurable multi-wavelength selection.
• The binary search approach combined with integrated optics provides a robust solution for optical signal processing.
• This technology has significant potential for future high-capacity optical networks.