Integration of optical interconnections on circuit board (original) (raw)

Hybrid integration of polymer-based micro-optical technologies allows implementing high-bit-rate optoelectronic interconnects. The target is communication between surface-mounted integrated circuit packages on printed circuit board through embedded optical waveguides. Different kinds of optical elements for coupling between transmitters/receivers and waveguides are studied, including microlens arrays, microlenses integrated on VCSELs, surface-mountable beam deflecting elements, optical pillar structures, and waveguide structures patterned by laser ablation. Integration experiments by the use of ceramic packaging substrate as well as results of the coupling efficiency and alignment tolerance characterizations are presented.