Optimization and analysis of series-coupled microring resonator arrays

In terms of the coupled mode theory and transfer matrix technique, novel formulas of the amplitude coupling ratios and transfer functions are presented for a series-coupled microring resonator (MRR) array. By using these formulas, parameters are optimized, and transmission characteristics including the transmission spectrum and the insertion loss are analyzed for a SiN/SiO2 series-coupled MRR array on Si substrate. The box-like spectral response is successfully obtained owing to the proper selection of the amplitude coupling ratio between the channel and the ring, and that between adjacent rings, as well as the number of series-coupled rings.