Abstract

Since the introduction of optica! waveguide arrays (OWAs) by Somekh et al. in 1973 scientists believe in their potential for optical switching applications.¹ Recently discrete diffraction phenomena of homogeneous² and inhomogeneous³ OWAs have been observed and it became clear that their discrete nature promises distinct features favorable to the spatial manipulation of optical signals. Here we report the first experimental demonstration of these new concepts for signal steering in OWAs by temperature control.

© 2002 Optical Society of America