Abstract

The ability to add and drop wavelength channels in a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) network is of great importance to achieve successful routing of wavelengths [1]. Several types of add/drop multiplexers have been demonstrated such as those using fiber grating filters and circulators [2], and those using arrayed waveguide technology [3]. The function of these add/drop multiplexers is to provide optical selection (drop) and addition (add) of a particular wavelength channel without interference from adjacent channels. The filter is a key building block for use in the drop demultiplexer as well as in wavelength, selective receivers [4]. A fast tuning semiconductor filter may be the best practical solution since it can combine the filter functionality with compactness, low cost and low polarization dependent loss. Additionally, through integration more functionality such as amplification and detection can be provided on a single chip. Here we present a semiconductor amplifier/filter which can be used an element in an add/drop multiplexer to provide gain and electrical tunability over 9.5 nm. Channel dropping and high receiver sensitivity is demonstrated using a circulator and the amplifier/filter in a five channel WDM system operating at 50 Mbits/s.

© 1996 Optical Society of America