Abstract

Mach-Zehnder type interferometric (MZI) modulators based on lithium niobate (LiNbO₃) are key components in today’s optical communication systems. Despite their excellent properties, future optical networks will require devices of lower drive voltage (V_π) and even higher bandwidth capability (40 GHz or higher). In particular, values of V_π ≤ 2 V would allow using much cheaper driving electronics. This was our motivation to develop MZI modulators with two novel characteristics: (i) the whole interferometer including Y-junctions consists of low loss ridge waveguides of strong light confinement [1]; (ii) a special electrode structure – designed for high bandwidth operation - enables low drive voltages.

© 2009 IEEE