PROPERTIES OF POLYMERIC MACH-ZEHNDER MODULATORS

To exploit the enormous potential transport capacity of optical fibers it will be necessary to replace many of the functions that today are implemented electronically with optical technology. These optical real izations often call for optical modulators and switches, sometimes int egrated with other optical components. Polymeric integrated optical ci rcuits hold the promise of high performance paired with low cost. The static and dynamic properties of an exploratory polymeric optochip wit h several Mach-Zehnder interferometers were measured. It was found tha t the insertion loss for butt coupling to standard fibers is relativel y high and that it increases drastically but reversibly when the chip is illuminated with white light. In addition, the required bias voltag es drift away slowly when the device is either subjected to laser ligh t or connected to a voltage. Nevertheless, if certain precautions are taken, the Mach-Zehnder interferometers are well suited for switching and modulation applications. Newer polymers and lens coupling will yie ld lower losses and improved stability.