Efficient performance optimization of SOA-MZI devices.
We present a novel characterization method for semiconductor optical amplifier Mach-Zehnder interferometer (SOA-MZI) switches which combines a pump-probe measurement with an interferometer bias scan. In addition to a wealth of information on the switching dynamics for all operating points of the switch, we can create an extinction map to pinpoint regions of highest extinction for optimizing all-optical ultrafast switching. We experimentally verify the accuracy of this characterization method by performing a wavelength characterization at the optimal bias point and a nearby, non-optimal point. A 1-dB penalty was observed.
Optical Communications Group, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Lexington, Massachusetts 02420, USA. jpwang@ll.mit.edu
Jade P
JP
Wang
Bryan S
BS
Robinson
Shelby J
SJ
Savage
Scott A
SA
Hamilton
Erich P
EP
Ippen
Ruomei
R
Mu
Hongsheng
H
Wang
Jiten
J
Sarathy
Boris B
BB
Stefanov
D003142:Communication; D003198:Computer Simulation; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D004867:Equipment Design; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology / Q000295:instrumentation*; D007368:Interferometry / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012666:Semiconductors