A full-vectorial method for efficient holey optical fiber modeling

Summary form only given. A vectorial algorithm (Monro et al. J. Lightwave Technol., vol.18, p.50-6, 2000) has been proposed to analyze large-hole structures. This algorithm, however, assumes the decoupling of the two transverse field components and should really be classified as a semi-vectorial algorithm. Here we propose a full-vectorial algorithm, which solves the wave equations exactly, without the assumption of decoupling of the two transverse fields. The algorithm based on Hermite-Gaussian function expansions is efficient because only relatively few terms are necessary to obtain good results. Our algorithm simplifies the refractive index representation of Monro, is better suited to various holey fiber structures, and provides better approximations around the core region. Compared with Monro, our proposed algorithm considers both transverse field components, and it is an accurate modeling for strongly guiding structures like holey fibers. The full-vectorial algorithm has been checked against analytical results in analytically solvable structures, and experimental results. Very good agreement is obtained in both cases.