Title :
A polarization independent guided-wave LiNbO/sub 3/ electrooptic switch employing polarization diversity
Author :
Duthie, P.J. ; Edge, C.
Author_Institution :
Plessey Res. Caswell Ltd., Towcester, UK
Abstract :
A 2*2 lithium niobate optical switch is demonstrated which uses polarization diversity to obtain polarization-independent operations with good crosstalk, a simple electrical drive configuration, and low drive voltage. The switch, on Z-cut LiNbO/sub 3/, is suitable for operation at 1.3 mu m with standard single-mode fibers. Resonant metal-loaded directional coupler mode-splitters enable the processing of each polarization component to be separately optimized. Switching voltages of 7 V for transverse magnetic and 24 V for transverse electric components have been achieved using a single substrate.<>
Keywords :
crosstalk; directional couplers; electro-optical devices; integrated optics; light polarisation; lithium compounds; optical communication equipment; optical couplers; optical switches; optical waveguides; 1.3 micron; 24 V; 7 V; 7E modes; 7M modes; LiNbO/sub 3/; crosstalk; electrical drive configuration; electrooptic switch; guided-wave; integrated optics; low drive voltage; metal-loaded directional coupler mode-splitters; optical switch; polarization diversity; polarization independent; resonant mode-splitters; single substrate; standard single-mode fibers; switching voltages; Crosstalk; Directional couplers; Lithium niobate; Low voltage; Magnetic resonance; Magnetic switching; Optical fiber couplers; Optical fiber polarization; Optical polarization; Optical switches;
Journal_Title :
Photonics Technology Letters, IEEE
