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Si-based tunable flattop photodetector with a stepped Fabry-Perot cavity
Wei Wang1, Yongqing Huang, Xiaofeng Duan
1State Key Laboratory of Information Photonics & Optical Communications, Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Beijing, China. wwaz2001@gmail.com
Applied Optics
|April 17, 2012
Summary
This study introduces a silicon-based tunable photodetector with a flattop spectral response, achieved using a stepped Fabry-Perot cavity for precise optical filtering.
Area of Science:
- Photonics
- Semiconductor device physics
- Optical engineering
Background:
- Photodetectors are crucial for optical communication and sensing.
- Achieving a flattop spectral response is challenging but desirable for specific applications.
- Tunable optical filters are needed for wavelength-selective detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and analyze a silicon-based tunable flattop photodetector.
- To investigate the use of a stepped Fabry-Perot cavity for spectral shaping.
- To optimize device parameters for performance and fabrication.
Main Methods:
- Transfer matrix method for simulating spectral response.
- Thermal tuning mechanism via an electrode.
- Analysis of trade-offs between free spectrum range and fabrication ease.
Main Results:
- A flattop spectral line shape was theoretically achieved with an optimal step height.
- Key performance metrics include 0.5 nm (1 dB), 0.8 nm (3 dB), and 1.2 nm (6 dB) linewidths.
- Peak quantum efficiency of 40% and tuning efficiency of 91 mW/nm were obtained.
Conclusions:
- The proposed silicon photodetector design offers a tunable flattop spectral response.
- Mature fabrication techniques support the realization of this device.
- The design balances performance with practical manufacturing considerations.
