Device input file to PHIsim

Device Input file to PHIsim

This file is an input file to the PHIsim_v3.exe program. It contains a list of all segments and their connections as well as a list of sources. Typically a user does not need to worry about the contents of this file since this file will be generated by the PHIsim_inputv3 program.

The first part is a list of segments. There are various types of segments. Each line describes a segment. On each line we have (tab or space separated):

• The first number is the segment number. It will correspond to the actual array number in the software for the array of structures where the data are stored.
• The second number gives the type of segment.

Then the input on the line depends on the segment type since specific information on optical and electrical connections will be given.

• The number of the (first) connecting segment on the left
• The number of the port of the first connection on the left.
• If there is more than one connection on the left then
• Connection on the right
• Port number on the right
• If an amp or phase modulator a number of a current source is given.
• The last bit on the line is a bit of text which will be ignored, but can be helpful for reading. There needs to be at least one character
• If the type of segment is a coupler with multiple ports the input is distributed over several lines. The first line (same as the segmentnumber and segment type indicator has also
  • The number of connections on the left
  • The number of connections on the right
  • For all connections all connected segments and ports, first left then right

Then we get two matrices nr_connect_R rows and nr_connect_L columns. The first is the real component of the coupling (E field!) and the second is for the phase.

Then this list is ended with a line that has only -1 plus some text.

Then follows a list of current sources used in the device. Each line described a current source. On the line is:

• A number of the source (start with 0)
• The amount of current from the source in Amps. Note this current is distributed evenly over the connected segments. If the input value of the current is 9999 or higher, the values for the current are time dependent and input is expected for each time dependent source. If the input file contains input for fewer time steps than the simulation runs, the current is held at the last value of the input file.
• The list ends with a -1 and a text. The remainder of the file is ignored.

Excel files can be used to build the device file. A tool like PHIsim_input is essential except for the smallest of devices.