Unconstrained splitting ratios in compact double-MMI couplers

Opt Express. 2014 Apr 21;22(8):9245-53. doi: 10.1364/OE.22.009245.

Abstract

A novel guided-wave optical power coupler is presented, based on two 2x2 50/50 multimode interference splitters connected with tapered waveguides that play the role of a phase shifter. By simply changing the length of this phase shifter, these double-MMI couplers can be easily designed to get any desired splitting ratio. Results of simulations are discussed and compared with the characterizations of devices fabricated on micron-scale SOI wafers, to highlight pros and cons of the proposed solution. The fabricated splitters have been found to have average losses about 0.4 ± 0.5 dB and splitting ratios ranging from 56/44 to 96/4.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't