Low-Cost Driver Powers OC-192 Modulators To 12.5 Gb/s

摘要

This evaluation board combines a limiting amplifier, PHEMT MMIC driver, RF power detector, high-frequency choke, and dither circuit, and allows driver and modulator to be matched for optimum performance. High-capacity OC-192 optical transmitters and receivers often require optimized components, such as modulator drivers, to achieve the best performance. Due to high levels of integration, such components are typically difficult to modify. Fortunately, iTerra Communications (Fremont, CA) offers a solution with its iT6120 modulator driver evaluation board. The board allows the driver to be matched to an optical modulator for 6.5 V peak-to-peak maximum output voltage at data rates to 12.5 Gb/s. The iT6120 modulator driver board provides on-board RF power detection, dither input, and a high-frequency output choke.