Open AccessContinuously tunable compact lasers based on thermo-optic polymer waveguides with Bragg gratings
Author(s) -
Young-Ouk Noh,
Hyung–Jong Lee,
Jung Jin Ju,
Min-Su Kim,
Su Hwan Oh,
MinCheol Oh
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.16.018194
Subject(s) - materials science , optics , wavelength , distributed bragg reflector , laser , optoelectronics , waveguide , wavelength division multiplexing , fiber bragg grating , tunable laser , bragg's law , distributed bragg reflector laser , diffraction , physics
Based on the thermo-optic tuning of a polymer waveguide Bragg reflector, we demonstrated a cost-effective tunable wavelength laser for WDM optical communications. The excellent thermo-optic effect of the polymer waveguide enabled direct tuning of the Bragg reflection wavelength by controlling the electrical power on a micro-heater. Wavelength tuning for 32 channels with 0.8 nm wavelength spacing was demonstrated as well as a continuous tuning with wavelength steps of 0.1 nm. To be qualified as a tunable laser for WDM-PON applications, wavelength stability within 0.15 nm was confirmed for an operating temperature range from -10 to 70 degrees C.