Abstract

We describe a method of reconstruction for investigating the validity of coupled mode theory in deriving the coupling coefficients of high index contrast (silicon-on-insulator) arrayed waveguides. For three material systems (silicon and air, oxide, and nitride) we quantify at which separation distances the next-to-nearest-neighbor coupling becomes significant, and the precise way in which coupled-mode theory breaks down, by reconstructing a coupling matrix from the fields and propagation constants.

© 2009 Optical Society of America