Ultrahigh-order mode-assisted hybrid optoelectronic bistability with an ultralow threshold

Abstract

A hybrid optoelectronic bistability is realized with the assistance of an ultrahigh-order mode (UHM) excited in a symmetrical metal-cladding waveguide (SMCW). PMN-PT ceramics is selected as the guiding layer, which possesses the voltage modulated refractive index and thickness by means of an electro-optical effect and converse-piezoelectric effect. An amplified voltage signal translated from the intensity of reflected light is exerted on the guiding layer, whose parameter variations can alter the resonance condition of the UHM and finally lead to a dramatic change in the intensity of the reflected light. Since the full width at half-maximum of the UHM is extremely narrow, a hysteresis behavior with a milliwatt threshold between the incident light and the reflected light can be achieved when a positive feedback is established. Our bistability configuration is simple and not limited to TM polarization.