Directional Coupler Modulators Designed for Analog Modulation of Large Signals at 810 nm

摘要

Directional coupler modulators (DCMs) have gained interest as a method of obtaining high-speed analog modulation of large signals and have the potential to overcome difficulties encountered with schemes that modulate the light source directly. Recording precise, high-bandwidth analog information above approximately 3 to 4 GHz requires a streak camera. Photocathode sensitivities are extremely low at 1300 nm, where the bulk of the DCM work has been done to date. We are, therefore, developing a DCM to operate at 810 nm and to approach bandwidths of approximately 15 GHz. We present measurements of a systematic parameter study of the optical coupling properties, the electro-optical transfer function, and the single-shot, pulsed, electro-optical response of these devices. We discuss applications to some high-speed diagnostic systems. (ERA citation 12:001369)