To implement high-bandwidth optical analog or digital communication links based on optical modulators, ultrahigh performance modulator driver amplifiers are required. Design considerations for such amplifiers are discussed here. Designs are significantly different than for laser driver amplifiers. For modulator drivers, an emitter follower output stage is appropriate. Active pull-down circuitry is beneficial to reduce power dissipation in a digital driver. Inductive tuning is beneficial to extend frequency response. Flip-chip mounting is beneficial to reduce bonding parasitic capacitance. Examples are given for driver designs for 10Gbit/s digital applications, and for 20GHz analog links, employing GaAs/AlGaAs HBT technology.

Date Published: 2 May 1994
PDF: 10 pages
Proc. SPIE 2149, Technologies for Optical Fiber Communications, (2 May 1994); doi: 10.1117/12.175258

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 2149:
Technologies for Optical Fiber Communications
Gail J. Brown; Susan R. Sloan; Kenneth D. Pedrotti; Didier J. Decoster; Didier J. Decoster; Joanne S. LaCourse; Yoon-Soo Park; Kenneth D. Pedrotti; Susan R. Sloan, Editor(s)