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Silicon nitride microwave photonic circuits.
Optics Express
|October 10, 2013
Summary
We demonstrate versatile microwave photonic processing using silicon nitride waveguides. This technology enables advanced functionalities like optical beamforming and modulation transformation for commercial viability.
Area of Science:
- Photonics
- Optical Engineering
- Microwave Engineering
Background:
- Microwave photonic (MWP) systems offer unique signal processing capabilities.
- High index contrast silicon nitride (TriPleX™) waveguide technology provides a robust platform for integrated photonics.
- Previous work has shown MWP links, pulse generation, and frequency measurements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an overview of diverse MWP processing functionalities.
- To showcase new functionalities including optical beamforming and modulation format transformation.
- To highlight the potential for integrated MWP systems and commercial viability.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing Mach-Zehnder and ring resonator filters.
- Employing basic building blocks: straight waveguides, phase tuning elements, and directional couplers.
- Leveraging high index contrast silicon nitride (TriPleX™) waveguide technology.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of a 16-channel optical beamforming network.
- Successful implementation of a modulation format transformer.
- Recalled measurements on high spurious free dynamic range MWP link, ultra-wideband pulse generation, instantaneous frequency measurements, Hilbert transformers, and microwave polarization networks.
Conclusions:
- The silicon nitride platform enables a wide range of MWP functionalities.
- Integration of these functionalities leads to reduced footprint.
- This advancement paves the way for commercially viable MWP systems.
