Opto-VLSI-based integrated reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer with enhanced performance

In this paper, we propose a novel integrated reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer (RODAM) structure based on using an Opto-VLSI processor and a 4-f imaging system. The 4-f imaging system composed of a fiber array, a lens array and an Opto-VLSI processor can be fabricated on a substrate to form an integrated optical interface. Experiments were implemented to demonstrate the ROADM operations of add-drop multiplexing. Experimental results show a low insertion loss of 6 dB and crosstalk level of no larger than -30.5 dB for the drop and through operation modes. Phase hologram optimization of the Opto-VLSI processor is investigated, for maximizing the number of wavelength channels while keeping adequate insertion loss and crosstalk levels. In addition WDM power equalization is achieved by controlling the maximum phase level of the steering holograms.