Integrated InP-Based Multichannel Transmitters for WDM-PON System

Access network is that part of telecommunication system which connects multiple subscribers to the service provider. Currently deployed access networks mostly make use of copper cables like a twisted pair or a coaxial cable [1]. It seems, however, that they do not provide sufficient data rates to fulfil continuously increasing needs for broadband telecommunication services. One of the most promising approaches for providing high-speed, all-optical, symmetric transmission of digital signals are passive optical networks using the wavelength division multiplexing technique (WDM-PON) [2]. WDM-PON access systems can offer large capacity, high transmission rate and data security. On the other hand, they require low-cost, highly reliable devices of high overall performance. It seems that the photonic integration technology based on indium phosphide is a platform of choice to meet these requirements, as it enables fabrication of compact, reliable and energy efficient devices in a form of monolithic chips, comprising multiple active and passive components. InP-based photonic circuits can provide the functionality of light generation, propagation, modulation and detection for optical signals of wavelengths around 1550 nm.