Hybrid integration technologies for a single-mode array transceiver, including the use of polymer waveguides of benzocyclobutene

Access networks represent a bottle neck in the present communication networks. The introduction of optical single mode technology into the access networks (Fiber TO THE HOME, FTTH; Fiber To The Antenna, FTTA etc.), would be highly desirable. In order for this to occur a drastic reduction of the cost for key optoelectronic components such as transceivers is needed. We report on and discuss different key technologies crucial for the production of low cost optical single mode components. In particular a technology demonstrator in the form of an array transceiver module has been designed and fabricated, thereby demonstrating the process compatibility between a number of low-cost technologies.