Alignment tolerant bi-directional optical interconnects using microlens integrated VCSEL/RCEPD arrays

Abstract

In this presentation, we propose novel techniques that improve the performance and the reliability of monolithically integrated VCSELs and RCEPDs , namely, (i) an approach based on forming a self-aligned microlens onto the top distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) of VCSEL elements without any additional lithography and (ii) a method that enables tuning the cavity mode of RCEPDs for wavelength alignment. In addition, we propose and demonstrate the proof-of-concept of a reconfigurable inter-chip optical interconnect structure employing Opto-VLSI processors. The performance of the structure is evaluated by measuring the output signals and eye diagrams for different point-to-point and point-to-multipoint optical interconnect scenarios.