Thin film filter-embedded triplexing-filters based on directional couplers for FTTH networks

We designed and experimentally demonstrated a thin film filter (TFF)-embedded directional coupler-type triplexing-filter on the planar-lightwave-circuit platform. The triple-play multiplexing was significantly simplified by using one TFF. The 1.31- and 1.55-μm lights were designed to be divided after passing the directional coupler by half-cycle and full-cycle coupling actions, respectively. The 1.49-μm light was reflected by a TFF inserted in a trench on the directional coupler. The insertion losses of fabricated triplexing-filters were less than 2.0 dB with bandwidths of 20 nm. The newly proposed triplexing-filter provides a cost-effective high-performance solution for fiber-to-the-home networks.