3-port polarization-independent optical quasi-circulator with holographic spatial walk-off polarizers

Abstract

An alternative type of 3-port polarization-independent optical quasi-circulator by utilizing a pair of holographic spatial walk-off polarizers (HSWPs). is proposed. This device consists of a reflection Prism, three polarization beamsplitter cubes, a pair of HSWPs, a Faraday rotator, and a half-wave, plate. The operating principles, the characteristics, and the performances: of this device and HSWPs are discussed. In order to show the validity, the prototype device operating in 1300nm is assembled and tested, experimentally. The merits of this design include polarization-independence, compactness, high isolation, and easy fabrication. It should also be possible to design the device operating at 1550 nm wavelength range.