We have succeeded in developing three techniques, a precise lens-alignment technique, low-loss built-in Spatial Multiplexing optics and a well-matched electrical connection for high-frequency signals, which are indispensable for realizing compact high-performance TOSAs and ROSAs employing hybrid integration technology. The lens position was controlled to within ±0.3 µm by high-power laser irradiation. All components comprising the multiplexing optics are bonded to a prism, enabling the insertion loss to be held down to 0.8 dB due to the dimensional accuracy of the prism. The addition of an FPC layer reduced the impedance mismatch at the junction between the FPC and PCB. We demonstrated a compact integrated four-lane 25 Gb/s TOSA (15.1 mm × 6.5 mm × 5.6 mm) and ROSA (17.0 mm × 12.0 mm × 7.0 mm) using the built-in spatial Mux/Demux optics with good transmission performance for 100 Gb/s Ethernet. These are respectively suitable for the QSFP28 and CFP2 form factors.

We review recent progress in integrated photonics devices and their applications for datacom. In addition to current technology used in 100-Gigabit Ethernet (100GbE) with a compact form-factor of the transceiver, the next generation of technology for 400GbE seeks a larger number of wavelengths with a more sophisticated modulation format and higher bit rate per wavelength. For wavelength scalability and functionality, planar lightwave circuits (PLCs), such as arrayed waveguide gratings (AWGs), will be important, as well higher-order-modulation to ramp up the total bit rate per wavelength. We introduce integration technology for a 100GbE optical sub-assembly that has a 4λ x 25-Gb/s non-return-to-zero (NRZ) modulation format. For beyond 100GbE, we also discuss applications of 100GbE sub-assemblies that provide 400-Gb/s throughput with 16λ x 25-Gb/s NRZ and bidirectional 8λ x 50-Gb/s four-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM4) using PLC cyclic AWGs.