LASER-DIODE TO SINGLE-MODE FIBER COUPLING USING AN OUT-OF-PLANE MISALIGNMENT MODEL

An analytical model has been developed to account for coupling losses between two Gaussian beams with misalignments in different planes. The verification of the model is implemented via the coupling of laser di ode light into an optical fiber. A nonzero end-face angle on the fiber tip allows for simple adjustment of misalignment planarity and can be interpreted as independent of traditional longitudinal, transverse, a nd tilt offsets. The model is intended for applications where variatio ns in coupling efficiency must be accurately evaluated and where the p otential for out-of-plane misalignments must be considered. Experiment al data are presented for the coupling of light between a laser diode module and several single-mode fibers with different end-face angles. The predicted change in coupling efficiency agrees with theory. Howeve r, the absolute coupling efficiency is only 0.71 of that predicted by theory, as is common for initial launch. Inasmuch as the theory presen ted is for any two Gaussian beams, the absolute coupling efficiency is expected to be more accurate for fiber-to-fiber applications.