Silica Based Planar Lightwave Circuits: Status, Perspective and Future

Abstract

Silica based planar lightwave circuits (PLCs) are used for opitcal branching, switching, and filtering applications in optical networks due to their inherent superiority like low insertion loss, possibility of hybrid integration, reproducibility and long term reliability. This review paper deals with the current status of silica based PLCs, future directions and prospects of this technology in meeting the future challenges of Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) networks.

Indexing terms:

• Wavelength division multiplexing
• Integrated optics components

Additional information

Notes on contributors

B R Singh

B R Singh, received his PhD from BHU in 1973 on “Interface Properties and Instability Phenomena at the Si/Si0₂ Interface”. From 1972–74 he worked as Senior Scientific Assistant at CEERI working on Thin Film Hybrid Integrated Circuits. In 1974 he joined Advanced Centre for Electronic System at IIT, Kanpur as Research Engineer. At ACES, he worked on development of PIN diodes, phase shifters and MIC for phased array radar systems. In 1976, he was awarded Alexander Von Humbolt Fellowship from West Germany and joined Institute of Semiconductor Electronics TH Aachen. At IHT Aachen, he worked on Halogen oxidation of silicon surfaces and Si/SiO₂ interface properties. In 1978, he joined CEERI as Scientist and is leading a group engaged on developing GaAs devices and IC's for microwave, high speed digital and opto-electronic applications. His current research interests include high speed PIN/FET optical receivers for long haul optical communication systems, Microwave devices and IC's, Silica-on-Silicon based WDM components and high power laser for communication and pumping. He has about 50 publications to his credit. He is fellow of IETE and Chairman, Semiconductor Society of India, Pilani chapter.