Maximum loss budget criteria for subcarrier multiplex broadcast passive optical networks

Analytic criteria for the laser optical modulation index and avalanche photodiode gain which maximise the loss budget of subcarrier multiplexed, broadcast, passive optical networks are described for the first time. A theoretical loss budget approaching 40 dB is predicted for 16.5 dB carrier-to-noise ratio in 36 MHz bandwidth for each of 120 channels under optimum conditions with <1 pA/ square root (Hz) thermal noise III-V avalanche photodiode receivers, 0 dBm laser launch power and <0.1% laser nonlinearity.