Integrated Optics - Applied Optics Fundamentals and Device Applications - page 270

In particular, currently available components perform various critical func-
tions in fiber-optic communication and sensing systems, such as modulation
(phase and intensity), switching, mode conversion, splitting/coupling, and
signal processing. Many of the companies offering integrated optic devices
concentrate on the LiNbO 3 and glass technologies, but a wide variety of sili-
con and compound semiconductor devices are available as well.
Because of the range and diversity of applications for integrated optics,
estimates of the markets are difficult to project. Many companies and R&D
labs have custom capability but do not advertise. Companies typically adver-
tise a year or two ahead of availability. One set of predictions [116] estimated
a total integrated optical circuit market of $5M in 1987, growing to $100M in
1990, and to $500M by 1995. Eighty percent of the 1990 market was predicted
to be LiNbO 3 devices, but 50% of the 1995 market would involve compound
semiconductor devices. The applications are predominantly in the fiber sen-
sor, communication, switching, biomedical, and instrumentation areas.
The integrated optical product data shown in Figure 5.33 through 5.41 was
supplied by a number of the companies initially offering commercial devices
20 years ago. These are representative of the technology available from a
number of sources. Direct performance comparisons are not made, since
specific applications will determine the most suitable device. Specific device
characteristics should be obtained from manufacturers.
Future systems requirements are as diverse as the applications to be
addressed. Critical components include tunable lasers, optical routers and

P 1

P 2

Electrode
(GND)

V 2

V 1

Electrode

V 2

Electrode
(GND)

P 3

P 4

(a)

RF IN

P 1

V 2

P 2

P 3

P 4

V 2

2Z M 2Z M

(b)

FIGURE 5.33
(a) LiNbO 3 2 × 2 switch, (b) LiNbO 3 traveling wave 2 × 2 switch.