Abstract

We present a mode multiplexer based on vertical directional couplers that are formed by adiabatic-tapered waveguides. We design and fabricate the device via the micro-fabrication processing to (de)multiplex the E₁₁, E₂₁, and E₁₂ modes from the few-mode bus waveguide. Our experimental device shows a coupling ratio higher than 98.6% and 97.0% for the E₂₁ and E₁₂ modes, respectively, over the C + L band and beyond. The modal cross talk of this device can be lower than –17.1 dB, –18.4 dB, and –15.1 dB caused by the unintended E₁₁, E₂₁, and E₁₂ modes, respectively. This mode multiplexer can work over a broader wavelength range with weak polarization sensitivity, which could be used in the mode-division-multiplexing systems where mode (de)multiplexing is required in the expanded communication wavelength window other than the C-band.

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