SOI-based compact mode- and polarization-division multiplexer for on-chip optical interconnects: design and...

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Integrated Optics
• Optical Communications

Background:

• On-chip optical interconnects are crucial for high-speed data processing.
• Efficient multiplexing of optical signals is essential for miniaturization and performance.
• Silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology offers a robust platform for integrated photonic devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a compact seven-channel hybrid mode- and polarization-division multiplexer.
• To demonstrate its effectiveness for on-chip optical interconnects.
• To achieve high performance with a reduced device footprint.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) waveguide platform.
• Employing a taper, polarization beam splitter, and asymmetric directional couplers for signal input.
• Using adiabatically connected sections with collocated asymmetric directional couplers for mode coupling.

Main Results:

• A compact seven-channel multiplexer was designed and simulated.
• Achieved a coupling length of approximately 44.29 µm.
• Demonstrated low insertion loss (<0.09 dB) and excellent crosstalk (< -30 dB) at 1.55 µm.

Conclusions:

• The proposed device offers a compact and efficient solution for on-chip optical interconnects.
• The hybrid mode and polarization division multiplexing strategy is effective.
• The SOI platform enables high-performance integrated photonic devices.