SBIR-STTR Award

We propose to develop ruggedized, hermetically-sealed, low-profile SEM-E-compatible packages incorporating temperature-insensitive laser arrays for optically interconnecting electronic processing modules through parallel fiber ribbons. Photonics Research Incorporated will team with Unisys Corporation to combine expertise in fabricating arrays of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs, tradenamed LASE-ARRAY BY PRI) and in manufacturing ruggedized avionic systems. VCSELs are ideally suited for inexpensive passively-aligned micro-optic packages which do not require thermoelectric coolers. In Phase I we will: 1) evaluate passive-alignment bonding, sealing and optical tolerance for low-cost automation; 2) evaluate thermal dissipation and optical performance using CAD; 3) fabricate temperature-insensitive LASE-ARRAYs; 4) assemble a breadboard optical interconnection and test the bit error rate for both single- and multi-mode VCSELs; and 5) develop the Phase II plan for demonstration and commercialization. In an option plan, we will: 1) perform reliability tests on the LASE-ARRAYs 2) design LASE-ARRAYs specific ally for multi-mode avionic fiber links (reliability, passively-aligned packaging,higher temperature insensitivity and optimum modal structure); and 3) design LASE-ARRAY SEM-E modules for avionic fiber links.

We propose a Phase II SBIR program to demonstrate and test parallel fiber optic transceiver modules, compatible with the IEEE standard SCI protocol, in both commercial-grade and military avionics compatible versions. In Phase I we: 1) identified the market opportunity, technology, accessibility and growth potential of target market segments, 2) proved feasibility of packaged VCSEL arrays for commercial and military applications and 3) developed the Phase II objectives and work plan. The Phase II objectives represent a focused plan to develop rugged hermetic and commercial specification versions of optical modules for which several large computer and telecom firms have expressed strong and immediate interest.

Keywords:
VCSEL VCSEL optoelectronics optoelectronics fiber optics fiber optics optical communications