Iowa State University Research Foundation Inc.

Jin-Wei Tioh

Robert J Weber

Mani Mina

Sasha N Kemmet Oster

Sasha N Kemmet

A pre-pulsed magnetic field generation circuit for a fiber-based, magneto-optic (MO) optical modulator or switch for use in an interferometer is provided. The pre-pulsed magnetic field is used to control the amount of rotation in the state of polarization (SOP), and therefore, the ON-OFF extinction ratio. The circuit includes a pair of amplifier circuits that control the current through a coil to generate the pre-pulsed magnetic field. One amplifier controls a magnitude of a steady state portion of the magnetic field, while the other controls both the amplitude and duration of a pre-pulse portion of the magnetic field.

Advanced drive circuitry for Sagnac interferometric switch utilizing faraday rotation

A fiber-based, magneto-optic (MO) optical modulator or switch based on Sagnac interferometry is provided. The system uses a magneto-optic Faraday rotator (MOFR) to produce optical modulation with low magnetic fields. The Sagnac geometry allows for increased modulation at lower fields than traditional MO modulators. This switch uses the MOFR to create different states of polarization in counter-propagating waves, which results in interference at the output port. A magnetic field is used to control the amount of rotation in the state of polarization (SOP), and therefore, the ON-OFF extinction ratio.

Growing community of inventors

Ames, IA, United States of America

Jin-Wei Tioh