Analysis of optical rib self-imaging multimode interference (MMI) waveguide devices using the discrete spectral index method

We have developed a semianalytical approach to study the propagation characteristics of multimode interference (MMI) waveguide structures. The effect of transverse crosssection geometry on self-imaging length and optical power throughput are investigated. We present results confirming that the nonquadratic modal dispersion encountered in stripe-loaded waveguides impairs self-imaging performance. Results indicate that the image degradation is more predominant for asymmetrically fed MMI waveguides.