Characterization of a 2×2 optical switch using an acousto-optic cell with phased array transducers

Abstract

With the intention of developing devices for optical communications, we have worked upon acousto-optic deflection in the Bragg regime, at 1.55 µm wavelength. Recently, still using the acousto-optic interaction, we have taken an interest in the 2×2 switching function. In this paper, we present an acousto-optic switch architecture based on phased array transducers. This switch is made of a single TeO 2 crystal, in which we superimpose two diffraction gratings created by two RF signals. First, we talk about the acousto-optic interaction, and make a general presentation of the switch's architecture. Then, we present some previous characterisations of the structure, in terms of diffraction efficiency according to the number of piezoelectric transducers electrically supplied and the RF power applied. We also study the diffracted optical beam profiles.