Lens Alignment Technique Using High-Power Laser for Hybrid Integrated Multi-Channel Transmitter Optical Sub-Assemblies

We propose a precise submicrometer alignment technique for lenses employing high-power laser irradiation. We investigate the mechanism in detail, and show that manipulation of the lenses is achieved in all directions, for the tightest positional tolerance. In particular, our proposed technique enables lens alignment by irradiating only the top of the lens holder making it suitable for high-density integrated multi-channel systems. With this technique, we have successfully developed the first lens-coupled hybrid integrated optical system for a 100 Gbit/s Ethernet transmitter optical sub-assembly.