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Design of a high-efficiency U-shape MOS capacitor Michelson interferometer modulator.
Optics Express
|February 20, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a novel U-shape MOS capacitor Michelson interferometer modulator for enhanced optical modulation efficiency. This compact, energy-efficient device operates at 50 Gbaud/s with low drive voltage, reducing reliance on external driver circuits.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Optoelectronics
- Integrated Optics
- Semiconductor Devices
Background:
- Existing electro-optic modulators face challenges in achieving high modulation efficiency and low power consumption.
- Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (MOS) capacitor modulators offer potential for miniaturization and integration.
- Michelson interferometer configurations can enhance modulation performance through bidirectional light propagation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel U-shape MOS capacitor Michelson interferometer modulator.
- To enhance modulation efficiency and reduce drive voltage requirements.
- To explore applications in energy-efficient and compact optical transmitters.
Main Methods:
- Design and fabrication of a U-shape MOS capacitor structure.
- Integration of the U-shape MOS capacitor into a Michelson interferometer.
- Characterization of modulation efficiency, operating speed, and extinction ratio.
Main Results:
- Achieved high modulation efficiency of 1.08 V·mm due to vertical optical mode compression.
- Demonstrated 50 Gbaud/s operation with a low 2 Vpp drive voltage.
- Obtained an extinction ratio of approximately 2.3 dB.
Conclusions:
- The U-shape MOS capacitor Michelson interferometer modulator offers superior performance.
- The device significantly enhances modulation efficiency without increasing capacitance or resistance.
- This technology presents a promising solution for energy-efficient, compact optical transmitters, reducing reliance on external driver circuits.
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