High-density optical interconnect using Photonic Crystals (PhCs'), is proposed as a technique for three-dimensional optical signal distribution and routing through multiple planes and in different directions. These optically conducting networks offer the ability to guide light analogously to electrical printed circuit boards (PCB's), which transport electrons through electrical networks. Due to their unique ability to confine and control light on the subwavelength scale, PhCs' have led a challenging prospect of miniaturization and large-scale integration of high density optical interconnects. Thus in this paper we present a novel approach for implementing a high density optical interconnect network in Photonic crystals. To this end, different techniques for both in plane coupling as well as vertical coupling from one layer of PhC to the other layer through an optical via are discussed. Numerical experiments results for optical confinement in both lateral and vertical directions will be presented.

Date Published: 21 December 2001
PDF: 11 pages
Proc. SPIE 4436, Wave-Optical Systems Engineering, (21 December 2001); doi: 10.1117/12.451298

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 4436:
Wave-Optical Systems Engineering
Frank Wyrowski, Editor(s)