WDM Multiplexer-Demultiplexer using fabry-perot filter array

摘要

A compact WDM optical device can demultiplex an optical laser signal containing several different wavelengths corresponding to particular channels, and, in reverse operation operate as a multiplexer to interleave several different wavelengths into a multiplexed multi-channel optical laser signal with improved insertion loss characteristics. The optical device includes a linear array of passive resonant optical cavities, in the form of Fabry-Perot filters, extending in a lateral direction and an integral array of associated microlenses extending in the lateral direction. Each microlens has a center which is offset from the central longitudinal axis of an associated Fabry-Perot filter to reflect laser radiation through the device. Each optical cavity is tuned by adjusting the longitudinal dimension thereof to a particular wavelength contained in the multi-channel optical signal. A stepped-wavelength steered laser radiation source for the optical device uses a VCSEL array with offset microlenses. With an additional row of microlenses the optical device can be used for wavelength routing and channel dropping applications. A stepped-wavelength WDM VCSEL array can be similarly organized to form a WDM combiner or multiplexer.