An electro-optic modulator assisted by nonlinear coupling dynamics

Summary form only given. We propose using the bistability of a nonlinear coupler not for an all-optical switch, but to enhance the sensitivity of an electrically-controlled modulator. This is potentially of enormous benefit. Essentially all performance limitations of electro-optic modulators are related to the trade-offs in achieving a /spl pi/ phase shift with a low drive voltage. By reducing the phase shift required for full switching, our scheme would loosen this fundamental constraint and allow higher bandwidth, lower power consumption, etc. We present simulations demonstrating the basic principle of the Kerr-assisted modulator, and calculate the moderate performance degradation due to optical power fluctuations.