Microresonators with Active Tuning

Abstract

In this chapter, methods for actively controlling the resonant wavelength of photonic microresonators in order to manipulate the propagation of light are introduced. The presented tuning mechanisms are based on the free-carrier dispersion effect and the thermo-optic effect. The free carriers and the thermal power required for the tuning can be generated either electrically or optically, enabling different applications including electro-optic modulators, optical switches, optical routers, all-optical logic, and memories. These microresonator-based devices have small footprint, low power consumption, and the capability of large-scale integration.