Component technology for 40 GHz fibre optic systems

The authors describe the design, manufacture, and performance of integrated optical modulators and InGaAs photodetectors for microwave optical systems operating up to 40 GHz. Critical design issues are examined and the achievements of current research are discussed. In particular, it is noted that GaAs integrated optical modulators based on a velocity-matched transmission line configuration which have been designed for bandwidths of up to 40 GHz indicate considerable potential for higher-frequency operation. The high modulation efficiency of these devices leads to modest drive power requirements which are compatible with solid-state sources. At the receive end of the link, high-efficiency, wide-bandwidth photodiodes are als available.<>