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Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: GR/N06137/01
Title: FOUNDRY CENTRED DESIGN & MANUFACTURE OF FREE SPACE OPTICAL POWER EQUALISATION MICROSYSTEM IN SILICON
Principal Investigator: Uttamchandani, Professor D
Other Investigators:
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Bookham Technology Plc Optosci Ltd
Department: Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Organisation: University of Strathclyde
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 23 August 2000 Ends: 22 October 2002 Value (£): 118,981
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Microsystems
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Communications Electronics
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
In multi-wavelength optical communication networks and sub-systems, there is a broad variation of optical power levels, ranging from >20 dBm to <-30dBm at different points and layers of the network. Erbium doped optical amplifiers have non-uniform gain. Transmission link properties change over time. Network operators do not have precise dynamic control over transmission laser powers. These effects require that dynamic optical power control be introduced into advanced optical networks to minimise wavelength dependent transmission errors. The aim of this project is to apply silicon MEMS technology, involving multi-layer surface micromachining, for the realisation of an optical power management microsystem. The system will use advanced design, simulation and visualisation tools together with advanced fabrication technologies capable of monolithic integration of free space microoptics, microactuators and microelectronics. Such a microsystem will allow realisation of intelligent optical nodes using simple, local control algorithms for providing dynamic control of signal powers in a multi-wavelength network, hence providing maximum flexibility for the network operator. The multi-user MEMS processes (MUMPS) available through Cronos Microsystems will be applied to fabricate the microsystem. This project will represent the first UK application of one of the world's most advanced and cost-effective multi-layer micromachining technologies.
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Organisation Website: http://www.strath.ac.uk