Multi-channel frequency stabilization using wavelength crossover properties of arrayed waveguide grating

To construct multi-channel systems with a vast amount of transmission capability, such as optical frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), a frequency stabilization technique is essential for minimizing fluctuation of the oscillation frequency of each channel and for getting more narrow channel spacing. This paper proposes a novel frequency stabilization method that uses the wavelength crossover properties of an arrayed waveguide grating (AWG). The zero-cross detection used in the proposed scheme does not require frequency modulation for synchronous detection unlike conventional frequency stabilization methods, but is implemented only by a simple electrical circuit.