WAVELENGTH DIVISION MULTIPLEXED OPTICAL MODULATOR FOR ADVANCED COMMUNICATION SYS

We propose to demonstrate the design, fabrication, and performance of an integrated optic based device which provides for both multiplexing and independent external modulation of three closely spaced wavelengths emitted by a multi-longitudinal mode laser. The innovative aspect of the proposed device is the use of an integrated optics device chip to enable coupling of the dispersed laser wavelengths into separate electro-optic modulators which encode each of the carrier wavelengths with a different signal. This device could be used in data communication systems to achieve the volume of data flow required by data systems that have an integrated form where video, voice, and data are simultaneously distributed and processed. The objective of the Phase I program is to design the various components of the wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical modulator, and to write specifications detailing critical component parameters, fabrication procedures and/or sources for procurement of components. Phase I experimental studies will provide data for the design studies through measurements of the spatial characteristics of both the light beam of the specified laser source and the guided light beam of the integrated optic waveguide structure. This Phase I effort will provide the design specifications required to fabricate and evaluate a prototype WDM optical modulator in the Phase II program.