Design and analysis of high-density SOA arrays on indium phosphide

Applications such as optical switch matrices and optical phased arrays require many integrated components, e.g. semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs). We present a novel solution for increasing the density of SOAs using the open-mask regrowth technique which can eliminate the loading effect and growth rate enhancement which are typically seen for large-area or high-density active blocks. We designed SOA arrays using the proposed technique on a generic indium phosphide platform. In parallel, a systematic approach towards enabling transfer printing of SOA arrays on a single coupon is introduced. Thermal simulations of SOA arrays on a substrate and coupon show that arrays with several SOAs on a single coupon are possible with minor thermal penalty. Finally, the experimental plan on a generic indium phosphide platform is presented.