An optical wavelength multi/demultiplexing (DWDM/CWDM) based on Array Waveguide Grating (AWG) technique

Abstract

Wavelength splitting (demultiplexing) and combining (multiplexing) are important functions in many optical applications. Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) enable optical multiplexing and demultiplexing in which the signals having different light wavelengths can be separated or combined to transmit in single fibre optic. There are two alternatives in WDM which are, Dense WDM (DWDM) for high capacity and long haul transmission, while Coarse WDM (CDWM) mean for shorter transmission and metro network. CWDM allows the wavelengths to be spaced farther apart, which allows for economical solutions in sparse applications (around 20nm) as compared to DWDM which utilizes very closely spaced wavelengths (around 0.8nm). Arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) multiplexer is a key element for wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems in optical telecommunication. The advantages of AWG are the flexibility of selecting its channel number and channel spacing. In this project, conventional AWGs with 4x4 channels structure based on polymer with channel spacing for DWDM/CWDM and core size 3 um x 4 um have been designed which centre wavelength 1550nm. The designs have been carried out by using WDM_phasar design tool from Optiwave Corporation. The performance and optimization of the designed AWGs have been analyzed based on parameters studied.