Implementation of a Multimode Optical Source in the VPIphotonics Software

This paper shows the design and implementation of a multimode optical source in the VPIphotonics software. Considering all the powerful features this software provides, the absence of a device such as a multimode source in its library constitutes a limitation for particular simulations. The use of single-mode optical sources available in the library allows for obtaining a multimode spectrum. The mathematical relationship that describes a multimode optical source is numerically evaluated in MATLAB. Afterward, this graphical result is compared with the obtained in the VPIphotonics software. The importance of using this type of optical source resides in its applications for modern optical communications systems, microwave photonic filters (MPFs), opto-electronic oscillators (OEOs), and sensors. This implementation aims to drive virtual systems where required, and by setting its parameters similar to the real ones, it allows good studying and understanding of system responses. Even more, it predicts or ensures the results of experimental systems by having the possibility to vary different parameters. A practical application of the obtained multimode optical spectrum is shown with its use in the implementation of an MPF. This last simulation is experimentally corroborated. This work presents a technique for designing a multimode optical source in this particular software and provides also academics and students, with a methodology for the use of this software for this kind of photonic design.