Integrated MMI couplers based 4×4 all optical switch with absolute loss uniformity

Abstract

We present a compact, low-loss, completely non-blocking 4x4 optical switch possessing loss uniformity with a negligible variation of 0.8%-1.5%. It is observed that the total switching loss ranges from 1.8% to 4.1% only with fabrication tolerances of ±2.5%. Integration of MMI waveguides approach has been used to optimize switching speed, losses and overall on chip area coverage of the proposed switch. © 2009 Photonics Society of Poland.