Abstract: An optical modulator includes a first layer that is transparent or semitransparent over a range of optical wavelengths; a modulation layer made from nanoparticles embedded in a matrix; a first electrode and a second electrode that create an electrical field that passes through the modulation layer. A method for forming a nanoparticle modulator includes obtaining and preparing a substrate; forming sub-layers on the substrate; forming a nanoparticle modulator layer, where the nanoparticle modulator layer is an electrical insulator and has a thickness of less than the wavelength of light the nanoparticle QCSE modulator is designed to modulate.

Abstract: A device disclosed herein includes a first layer, a second layer, and a first plurality of nanowires established between the first layer and the second layer. The first plurality of nanowires is formed of a first semiconductor material. The device further includes a third layer, and a second plurality of nanowires established between the second and third layers. The second plurality of nanowires is formed of a second semiconductor material having a bandgap that is the same as or different from a bandgap of the first semiconductor material.

Abstract: A ridge waveguide with decreased optical losses from surface scattering includes a ridge waveguide with etched surfaces and an optical layer deposited on the ridge waveguide that substantially covers the etched surfaces. A method of reducing optical energy losses from scattering at etched surfaces of a ridge waveguide includes depositing a layer of optical material over the etched surfaces, the layer of optical material filling surface irregularities in the etched surfaces.

Abstract: A semiconductor device which has controlled optical absorption includes a substrate, and a semiconductor layer supported by the substrate. The semiconductor has variable optical absorption at a predetermined optical frequency in relationship to a bandgap of the semiconductor layer. Also included is a strain application structure coupled to the semiconductor layer to create a strain in the semiconductor layer to change the semiconductor bandgap.

Abstract: An optical interconnect has a plurality of optical sources, a first lens configured to collimate optical beams from the plurality of optical sources, a second lens configured to refocus the optical beams, and a plurality of optical receivers configured to receive the refocused optical beams from the second lens.