PIGANA: polarisation-independent gain for access network applications: fabrication, characterisation and systems trials of broadband semiconductor optical amplifiers

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The goal of this project is to validate semiconductor amplifier designs through their fabrication, characterisation and system trials. The expected result is a semiconductor amplifier prototype suitable for deployment in next generation optical access networks. The combined requirements of broadband-flattened polarisation-insensitive gain and integrate-ability in a mature materials platform are technically very challenging. The amplifiers will be designed, fabricated in the form of a chip and packaged for comprehensive testing. The characteristics of the individual component will be tested, as well as its impact within novel access network architectures assessed. The focus of this device project is on maximally exploiting an integration platform amenable to the economics of low cost volume manufacture which is essential to widespread adoption of the technology. Our industrial partner, OneChip Photonics Inc. will be the direct receptor of the amplifier solution. OneChip Photonics is a fabless developer and manufacturer of active optical components (e.g. transceivers) for mass deployment in broadband access networks. The amplifier design will be compatible for integration into their proprietary photonic technology. This will expand their target market by adding value to their products while lowering the cost of their complete integrated solution incorporating the amplifier design cell. The project is innovative because it envisages the use of novel amplifier designs to extend and improve the functionality of current access networks whilst reusing the deployed fibre infrastructure, therefore eliminating the need for major capital investments. The proposed research will contribute directly to providing broad-band access to all, which is now essential to the economic and social well-being of developed societies. It will help position Canada as a world-leader in optical fibre broadband access technology, a rapidly expanding sector of the world-wide marketplace. Equally important, the research will develop highly qualified and skilled personnel; promoting effective knowledge transfer and helping to fill the employment needs of the industry in the near future.