As discussed by Lightwave in their article, “Packaging – Hermetic Packaging: A Neglected ‘Holy Grail’?,” hermetic packaging has become an increasingly important aspect of fiber optics, despite historically receiving less attention compared to other technological advancements. Hermetic packages are designed to prevent moisture from entering the package, a critical factor in ensuring the longevity and reliability of fiber-optic components. These packaging designs borrow from proven principles in the microelectronics and microwave industries, yet they have often been overlooked as companies focused on developing the “black box” technologies themselves.
However, in today’s competitive market, the reliability offered by hermetic packaging is becoming a crucial differentiator for network gear companies. As the demand for dependable, long-lasting components grows, the need to protect sensitive electronics, epoxy, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) from moisture-induced damage has never been greater.
Moisture exposure can lead to the corrosion of electronic contacts in active devices like lasers, modulators, and amplifiers, eventually causing device failure. Similarly, moisture-sensitive epoxy used in attaching pigtails to wafers or chips can lead to fiber misalignment, while optical subcomponents like filters and MEMS devices can degrade, impacting their optical performance. Hermetic packaging effectively mitigates these risks, providing an additional layer of security and enhancing the overall reliability of fiber-optic components.
Two significant trends are driving the increased focus on hermetic packaging in the fiber-optic industry. First, if a network equipment supplier encounters a failure in a Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) system and the faulty component was not hermetically sealed, the component’s reliability is immediately questioned. Hermetic packaging eliminates the moisture-related failure route, offering peace of mind to end customers.
Second, as the industry moves toward greater integration of passive and active devices, packages originally designed for passives are being redesigned to be hermetic. This is necessary because these components require active control or monitoring through closed-loop feedback systems. Examples include integrated lasers with variable optical attenuators (VOAs) or tunable filters that need dynamic adjustment.
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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of lightwaveonline.com