Spatial-light-modulator-based optical-fiber joint switch for few-mode multicore fibers.

Area of Science:

• Optical networking
• Photonics
• Fiber optics

Background:

• Existing optical networks face challenges in cost-efficiency, routing flexibility, and scalability.
• Few-mode multicore fibers offer increased capacity but require advanced switching solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a spatial-light-modulator-based optical-fiber joint switch.
• To enable simplified, cost-efficient optical networks with enhanced routing flexibility and scaling potential.

Main Methods:

• Development of a spatial-light-modulator-based joint switch for few-mode multicore fibers.
• Numerical simulations and experimental validation of the proposed switching method.
• Analysis of signal path switching and mode-field pattern preservation.

Main Results:

• Simultaneous switching of signal paths for a 6-mode 19-core fiber was achieved.
• Mode-field patterns of diffracted light were maintained after joint switching.
• Maximum port crosstalk was significantly reduced from -11.6 dB to -25.1 dB by optimizing output port positions.

Conclusions:

• The proposed spatial-light-modulator-based joint switch effectively routes all spatial channels as a unit in few-mode multicore fibers.
• This technology offers a pathway to simplified, cost-efficient optical networks with improved performance and scalability.
• The method demonstrates significant crosstalk reduction, enhancing signal integrity in optical communication systems.