Patent ID: 6591038
Filing Date: 2003-07-08
Classification: G02B,H04J

Abstract:
An optical demultiplexing apparatus for separating a plurality of optical channels distributed at an equal wavelength spacing within an input optical signal, the apparatus comprising:an optical input path along which the input signal is directed; an optical interleaver to which the input signal is directed from the input path, the optical interleaver having a reflectivity profile that makes it highly reflective to each of a first set of said channels, and highly transmissive to each of a second set of channels, the first channel set and the second channel set being interspersed in wavelength in an alternating manner to make up the overall plurality of optical channels, wherein the interleaver comprises a chirped sampled grating having a plurality of adjacent-grating sections, each with multiple refractive index variations, and wherein the refractive index variations of each section have a pitch that changes along the length of that section; an optical coupler that couples the first channel set along a first output path; a second output path along which the second set of channels are transmitted; a first demultiplexer that demultiplexes the first channel set; and a second demultiplexer that demultiplexes the second channel set.