Microphotonics: Physics, Technology, and an Outlook toward 21st Century

초록

(Asia-Pacific Optical Communications 2001, 12-16 November, 2001, Beijing, China) This paper presents an overview of our study on the subject that is categorically termed microphotonics . Microelectronics, as we define it here, is an area of scientific and technological study concerning the miniaturization, interconnection, and integration of photonic devices, circuits, and systems in micron or submicron scale. We examine the scientific and technological issues relating to these matters and discuss the challenges that the microphotonics faces toward the information technology in the 21st century. In the course of this study, we closely follow the experiences of microelectronics side by side, so that they can provide lessons, learnings, and insights that microphotonics can rightfully benefit from in a complementary form. Similarities, dissimilarities, advantages, and disadvantages, merits and demerits of the two technologies are explored in such a way that they can be more effectively utilized by mutual support. Directions for future studies are also discussed with particular emphasis on information technology.