Dynamic dispersion compensation using a Fourier-Fresnel phase apertured active arrayed-waveguide grating

We have described how Fourier-Fresnel transform theory may be applied to the design of active arrayed waveguide gratings (AWGs) to enable dynamic dispersion compensation. Simulations have shown that dispersion compensation of up to 6980 ps/nm is possible. In principle, further higher-order polynomial-profiled active regions could be added to the AWG Fourier plane, to achieve dynamic compensation for the higher-order dispersion effects which are becoming evident in high-capacity lightwave communication systems.