Abstract

Semiconductor optical switches operating through carrier-induced refractive-index change are promising components for photonic switching. The large and polarization-independent refractive-index change facilitates realizing compact optical switch arrays and reliable connection with conventional fibers.^1,2 We developed an InP-based nonblocking 4 x 4 optical switch array using single-slip structure (S³) as an optical switch unit.³ This device has advantages, such as small size, single-mode operation, and polarization independence. However, there are also drawbacks; large total insertion loss and insufficient ON/OFF ratio, which prevent extending integration because of power penalty and cross talk.

© 1990 Optical Society of America