API Nanotronics intros polarizing beam splitter/combiners

SEPTEMBER 9, 2008 -- API Nanotronics Corp. says that its wholly owned NanoOpto division (search for NanoOpto) has introduced a new high-performance polarizing beam splitter/combiner (PBS/C). The devices are used to combine light from two input beams into a single output beam (PBC mode) or to separate the orthogonal polarization components of an input signal into two output beams (PBS mode).

These advanced optical devices are optimized for operation at either 1310 nm or 1550 nm with the following specifications

• Transmission channel (Tx): extinction ratio > 1000:1 ( > 30 dB), transmission > 95.5% (IL=0.2 dB)
  
• Reflection channel (Rx): extinction ratio > 320:1 ( > 25 dB), transmission > 93.5% (IL=0.3 dB).
  

NanoOpto's PBS/C are nanofabricated directly on thin glass substrates using proprietary processes, which API Nanotronics says results in a product with a small form factor and "great" shape and size versatility, in contrast to conventional large crystal PBS/C products. The NanoOpto devices can be produced on BK7, SBL7, or similar substrates with thicknesses ranging from 0.2 mm to 1.6 mm and sizes from 0.5x0.5 mm to 15x15 mm. The operating range is -40 to 80°C. Custom specifications and larger sizes are also possible.

NanoOpto's PBS/C have applications in telecom, scientific equipment such as Raman amplifiers, polarization division mux/demux, polarization switches, variable optical attenuators, and general fiber networks.

Pricing at 100-piece quantity of a 15x15-mm-square 1310- or 1550-nm PBS/C on BK7 substrate is $625. The PBS/C with Rx of 100:1 is still available.

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