A Single Mode Polarization-Selective Coupler Using Fiber-Lenses

The fabrication and performance of a polarization-selective coupler is described. Fused fiber-lenses and rutile are integrated to multiplex two outputs (orthogonal linear polarization states) from two polarization maintaining fibers onto a single fiber. The fiber- lenses are fused to the single mode fiber thus eliminating relative motion at a critical interface. Misalignment sensitivities therefore are reduced because they are now representative of the overlap of expanded beams.