Highly-Integrated Wavelength Insensitive 2×16 Signal Splitters with Test Light Couplers

Optical splitters and couplers play an important role in the construction of various optical communication systems. Splitters, in particular, are now being used in optical signal distribution systems due to the progress of Er-doped fiber amplifiers. Wavelength insensitive couplers (WINCs) are used for an optical fiber transmission line testing system1). We have developed waveguide-type WINCs2) and 2×N splitters3) using silica-based planar lightwave circuit technology4), which enable multiple passive devices to be integrated on a Si substrate. Combining the two functions of signal light splitting and test light coupling is attractive for passive optical network systems. This paper will describe the successful integration of a 2×16 splitter and wavelength insensitive test light couplers.