Design and simulation tools for photonic integrated circuits

The current boom in WDM optical networks has created a huge demand for a variety of optical components. Due to their compactness, robustness and suitability to large scale production Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC's), that combine a number of optical elements on a single chip, will play an important role in satisfying this demand. In PIC's the light is routed through certain paths using total internal reflection at waveguide interfaces. Optical Design Automation tools (ODA) play a paramount role in reducing the development time of these PIC's. In this paper we will present an overview of the most commonly used design tools as well as their requirements to allow for a short and efficient design cycle.