Passively aligned LD/PD array submodules by using micro-capillaries

A passive alignment technique using micro-capillaries has been developed for multichannel optical interconnection modules. The technique is applicable when coupling a four-channel LD array to a hemispherically lensed fiber array, or a four-channel PD array to a slant-polished fiber array. Alignment time was reduced to less than 1/20 that of conventional active alignment by simply positioning the fiber array through capillaries in V grooves in the Si-platform, while obtaining high coupling efficiency of -3.4/spl plusmn/0.5 dB for LD submodules and -0.4/spl plusmn/0.1 dB for PD submodules.