Proposal of compact multimode interference optical modulator with high extinction ratio

Abstract We proposed a compact 1 × multimode interference (MMI) optical modulator with high extinction ratio. A triply coupled quantum well structure is designed for the core layer enhancement of quantum-confined Stark effect, and MMI waveguide isolation trenches symmetrically designed. The length reduced by 30%, wavelength dependence was compared that observed in previously reported modulator. Owing to both electroabsorption effect electric-field induced refractive index change multiple-quantum-well layer, ratio expected be approximately 45 dB at an operating voltage 3.3 V.