Optical Waveguide Characterization Using Grating Couplers

Optical waveguides of GaAlAs were experimentally investigated using tthe grating coupler. A convenient measurement to reference input-coupling angles to the normal is described. This referencing capability enables the accurate characterization of a single mode waveguide. The measurement is applicable to the determination of the effective refractive index of quaternary waveguides, and thus could assist in the fabrication of GaInAsP/InP distributed Bragg reflector lasers. Keywords include: GaAlAs, GaInAsP/InP, Grating Coupler, Optical Waveguide, Quaternary, and III-V Semiconductor.