Optical filter based on omnidirectional reflectors

Optical filters based on dielectric omnidirectional reflectors are theoretically analyzed both in the frequency domain and in time domain. It is shown that an optical filter can be made by drilling periodic air holes in a dielectric omnidirectional reflector. The filter’s optical properties can be controlled by varying the lattice constant and the radius of air holes without changing the reflector’s thickness. Thus different filters can be easily integrated in one reflector. This kind of filter is expected to be used in optical communication devices and vertical cavity surface emitting lasers. PACS 42.70.Qs; 42.79.Ci; 78.20.Bh