A Design Guideline for Mode (DE) Multiplexer Based on Integrated Tapered Asymmetric Directional Coupler

Abstract

A tapered asymmetric directional coupler is considered as a promising structure for high tolerance and efficient on-chip mode (de)multiplexers. However, the optimum geometry parameters selection still remains empirical without specific numerical guidance. Here, an in-depth analysis has been carried out based on coupling mode theory. A theoretical model is built aiming to combine the consideration of device efficiency, mode crosstalk and fabrication tolerance. According to that, mode (de)multiplexers (TE_0-TE_1, TE_0-TE_2, TM_0-TM_1, TM_0-TM_2) with broad operation wavelength (C + L band) and low mode crosstalk (minimum -30 dB) are fabricated. The proposed theoretical model can serve as a guideline for the design and optimization of the tapered ADC based mode (de)multiplexers.