M-ENGINE’s goal is to demonstrate the scalable fabrication of microcomb photonic modules using microtransfer printing. The overarching goal of the M-ENGINE project is to develop a compact microcomb photonic module (microcomb photonic engine), that is mass-manufactured with high yield and low cost enabling high-volume applications of comb lasers. The project objectives and the KPI related to each objective are described below.
Key Performance Indicators
KPI #
Measurable Project KPI
Related Objective
M-ENGINE Target
KPI required by customers (based on initial discussions)
KPI 1
Optical power per channel
1
-10 dBm
KPI 2
Number of optical channels
1
16 channels
KPI 3
Power deviation across channels
4
0 dBm
KPI 4
Optical Signal-to-Noise Ratio
4
>35 dB
Technical Validation
KPI 5
Optical Conversion Efficiency
1
20%
KPI 6
Coherent Modulation format supported
4
16 QAM.
KPI 7
The yield of MTP printed comb sources
2, 3
>80%
Business Validation
KPI 8
Cost per M-ENGINE PIC with MTP at wafer level fab to meet customer needs
2, 3, 5
< 300 Euro
KPI 9
Letters of Interest from future customers
5
10
KPI 10
Customers that tested the initial prototype
5
5
(a) Schematic drawing of a PhCR. The shape of the corrugation sets a spectral reflection profile. On the right, scanning electron microscope images of such structures.
(b) The spectral variation of the reflection modifies the effective dispersion (or meta-dispersion) via mode splitting.
