Ultra-Low-Cost Low-Noise Hybrid-Integrated Laser and SOA Modulator Switch Navy SBIR FY2008.3 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.3 Topic No.: N08-208 Topic Title: Ultra-Low-Cost Low-Noise Hybrid-Integrated Laser and SOA Modulator Switch Proposal No.: N083-208-0040 Firm: Morton Photonics Incorporated 3301 Velvet Valley Drive West Friendship, Maryland 21794-9430 Contact: Paul Morton Phone: (443) 745-4779 Web Site: www.mortonphotonics.com Abstract: This SBIR program brings together a world leader in semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs), a paradigm changing ultra-low-cost packaging technology, and the expertise to integrate these technologies to develop a product that will meet the demanding technical and cost targets for the NavSea application driving this SBIR topic. In this program, a low noise laser source will be combined with a customized SOA device, including an optical isolator between these elements, through the use of novel hybrid-integration techniques. The resulting device will provide excellent noise performance during SOA switching transients, as required for demanding sensing applications. The device will offer ultra-low-cost and high-volume manufacturing to support DOD requirements. Benefits: On successful completion of this program, the novel ultra-low-cost laser/isolator/SOA device will be manufactured (Phase III) to meet the NavSea program requirements. Additionally, this technology will find applications in other DOD and commercial markets, for sensing and other uses. Beyond this first product to use the new hybrid-integrated low-cost-packaging approach, a new range of devices will be developed by Morton Photonics and its partners, placing different active photonic components (e.g. SOA, photodetector) within the same package, therefore leveraging this new technology for other applications including high-speed telecom and datacom systems. This novel technology will reduce the cost of such complex photonic devices significantly, while keeping the required performance levels, leading to a much broader overall marketplace for these devices, and penetration into markets previously dominated by non-optical devices. Return