Phase-change materials (PCMs) integrated photonics are generating new paradigms, thanks to their zero static energy consumption, capability of switching reversibly, and drastic optical property contrast. However, electrically switching PCMs is inherently stochastic, hindering reliable multi-level or quasi-continuous operations. Here we propose that reliable quasi-continuous operation can be achieved in GST optical switches, where several GST patches are controlled in a binary fashion by interleaved PIN-diode doped silicon microheaters. We further experimentally demonstrate that the idea works in a tunable attenuator.
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