LiNbO3 Optical Waveguide Switch/Modulator for an Optical Communications System.

Abstract

LiNbO3 optical waveguide switches and modulators for optical communications systems are reviewed. A polarization independent directional coupler switch was developed and was applied to the first practical switching device for OTDR, and a polarization independent 8 x8 matrix switch for a photonic space -division switching system. Recent improvements in high-speed optical modulators and modulator arrays are also described briefly.