PHOTONICS | ARTICLE
<< Figure 2: Examples of
the basic optical functions that can be implemented in the Visible PIC technology. >>
With this waveguide technology a number of passive and active optical functions can be made, such as wavelength combiners, power splitters, switches, filter components, variable attenuators and modulators. These functions can be combined in one PIC to realise the desired functionality in one robust and compact component. Many of these functions are known from the discrete options alternative, however new functionalities can be created by combining more on-chip functions to one. See figure 2 for some examples of the possible optical functions and their comparison with optical discrete functions.
Interfacing to PIC Devices To interface with the optical system, the visible light PICs can be equipped with optical fibre connections or be used as a free- space optical component. Hybrid configurations with both fibre connections as well as free-space interfaces on the same device are also possible.
The devices based on the PIC for visible light have no moving parts, are robust and stable over a very wide temperature range, do not need optical adjustment and can be very compact in size.
<< Figure 3: Interfacing option of Visible PIC: fibre coupled (leſt), to free space (right). >>
40 | commercial micro manufacturing international Vol 7 No.4
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