16-channel optical add/drop multiplexer using silica-based arrayed-waveguide gratings

An optical add/drop multiplexer (ADM) that enables full access to 16 individual wavelength channels has been fabricated on a planar lightwave circuit (PLC). The device consists of three arrayed-waveguide gratings which are connected by 16 thermo-optic switches. The on-off crosstalk for the main input to the main output port is less than –24 dB and that for the main input to the drop port is about –13 dB. The fibre-to-fibre insertion losses are 7–8 dB and 3–4 dB when signals are coupled to the main input port and to the add port, respectively.