Analysis for fabrication errors of arrayed waveguide grating multiplexers

Based on the transmission theory, parameter optimization is performed, and effects of fabrication errors on transmission characteristics are analyzed for a 33×33 polymer arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) multiplexer around the central wavelength of 1550.918 nm with the wavelength spacing of 0.8 nm. Simulated results show that fabrication errors result in the shift of the transmission spectrum, and lead to the increase of the crosstalk compared with the device theoretically designed. Furthermore, accumulation and compensation of fabrication errors are investigated. In order to realize the normal demultiplexing of the fabricated AWG device, the allowed fabrication errors are discussed.