| 摘要 |
An integrated optical switch comprises a pair of waveguides (14, 16)on a substrate (10), a p-n junction across the pair of waveguides defined by doped regions (18, 20) in the substrate, one on each side of the pair of waveguides, the arrangement being such as to enable an asymmetric current density to be applied across the respective waveguides. Typically, this is achieved by defining said regions substantially asymmetrically about the pair of waveguides. The arrangement can be asymmetric in respect of the location and/or the shape of the doped regions. The asymmetry can exist longitudinally with respect to the waveguides, or transverse thereto, or in other ways. A series of p and n-doped regions can be provided, potentially in a symmetric layout, and driven selectively and asymmetrically so as to achieve the same or a similar effect.
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