Abstract: Optical modulators with reduced temperature dependence on bias control are described. A set of bias electrodes is arranged relative to a set of RF electrodes in a manner which results in the opening point of the device remaining relatively constant as a function of temperature. The arrangement of the bias electrodes relative to the RF electrodes includes a physical offset of one set of electrodes relative to the other, with or without a reversal of polarity of one set of electrodes relative to the other. Arrangements according to the present invention create a symmetrical electrode arrangement from a temperature-induced stress point of view so that the operating point of the device remains relatively constant as a function of temperature.

Abstract: Optical modulators with reduced temperature dependence on bias control are described. A set of bias electrodes is arranged relative to a set of RF electrodes in a manner which results in the operating point of the device remaining relatively constant as a function of temperature. The arrangement of the bias electrodes relative to the RF electrodes includes a physical offset of one set of electrodes relative to the other, with or without a reversal of polarity of one set of electrodes relative to the other. Arrangements according to the present invention create a symmetrical electrode arrangement from a temperature-induced stress point of view so that the operating point of the device remains relatively constant as a function of temperature.

Abstract: A method and optical tap is provided for forming a monitor signal that is a measure of optical power in a guided mode output of an optical modulator. The method and optical tap may monitor the guided mode power without tapping the guided mode light, even when optical power of the radiation modes is non-complementary to that of the output mode. Light from the radiation modes of the optical modulator is coupled into the wall of a capillary through a front face. Separate portions of the radiation mode light are reflected into photodetectors, which form photocurrents that are incoherently added to form the monitor signal.

Abstract: A method and optical tap is provided for forming a monitor signal that is a measure of optical power in a guided mode output of an optical modulator. The method and optical tap may monitor the guided mode power without tapping the guided mode light, even when optical power of the radiation modes is non-complementary to that of the output mode. Light from the radiation modes of the optical modulator is coupled into the wall of a capillary through a front face. Separate portions of the radiation mode light are reflected into photodetectors, which form photocurrents that are incoherently added to form the monitor signal.