While there are one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) arrays, the need for speed and the growing volume of data drive demand for 2D fiber arrays.
The main reasons are:
- 2D fiber arrays hold fibers in a matrix arrangement (rows × columns), unlike conventional 1D fiber arrays (fibers in a single row, e.g., 12 or 16 channels).
- Allows hundreds of fibers to be packed in a dense footprint, as they are precision glass plates with micron-scale holes or grooves, drilled and etched in 2D.
- Made from fused silica or high-purity borosilicate glass, due to its low CTE and dimensional stability.
The production process of 2D optical fiber arrays is more complex than that of 1D arrays. While 2D arrays can be fabricated using diverse techniques, WOP utilizes femtosecond
laser micromachining, followed by selective laser-induced etching (SLE), which demonstrates definite advantages in precision, consistency, speed, material versatility, and cost-effectiveness.
Using our laser micromachining method for fiber arrays fabrication, critical features such as tight tolerances, tight positional accuracies, and hole diameter – within the tolerance of ±0.5 μm – can be achieved. This tight control of metrics ensures well-controlled alignment that might reduce insertion loss and provide good repeatability.
Moreover, this method enables forming the hole entrance as a funnel, step profile, or with a conical taper for easy fiber insertion. The channels can be straight or angled (like 8̊ ).
