Novel multiple quantum well modulators for optical interconnects

Optical interconnects between electronic integrated circuit chips may alleviate their bandwidth and pinout number requirements. This is especially true if surface-normal photonic elements are used since then large two-dimensional arrays of interconnects may be formed. A likely candidate for the photonic elements are multiple quantum well (MQW) modulators. Attempts to improve the performance of these devices will be discussed here. The attempts come under three categories: (1) Increasing the electroabsorption of the MQW by altering its structure; (2) Increasing modulation by stacking devices; (3) Increasing modulation by placing the MQW in a Fabry-Perot cavity.