Finite element modeling of a polarization independent optical amplifier

Polarization independent amplifiers are studied using a perturbation technique based on the finite element method (FEM). The need for such a sophisticated technique to tackle this practical problem is noted and the impact of user-friendly interfaces is discussed. A function evaluator module, FUNBOX, is used to assess mode overlap integrals and the confinement factor. The FEM is used here to estimate waveguide/amplifier coupling loss, coupling to higher order modes and the polarization sensitivity of an amplifier structure. The result of a tolerancing exercise are presented, indicating the power and usefulness of such modeling tools.<
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