Polarization-insensitive arrayed-waveguide wavelength multiplexer with birefringence compensating film

Abstract

An integrated-optic polarization-insensitive wavelength multiplexer that is based on an arrayed-waveguide grating is described. Polarization dependence due to thermal stress was eliminated by depositing an a-Si birefringence compensation film on the arrayed-waveguide. The multiplexing operation of 16 wavelength channels with a 0.8 nm spacing was confirmed to be independent of the polarization state.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>