Abstract

Cost effective wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) transmission systems and networks¹ rely on the capability of fabricating WDM components with reproducible and exact channel spacings. Here, we demonstrate a novel laser based on the monolithic integration of optical amplifiers with a planar 1 × N waveguide grating multiplexer or Dragone router.² The Dragone router can be fabricated reproducibly with very low loss on InP in one step.³ Its design is very versatile when it comes to integration; many different WDM components have been proposed.⁴ For these reasons, we believe, that the Dragone router has an advantage over the curved mirror grating⁵ that has been used for Bellcore's MAGIC laser.

© 1994 Optical Society of America