Analog Devices, Inc. (NYSE: ADI), a provider of high-performance semiconductors for signal processing applications, announced a single-chip, high-precision thermoelectric cooler (TEC) controller for DWDM (dense wavelength division multiplexing) networking equipment. DWDM is a technology that enables the transmission of signals through many channels over a single fiber, a function key to long-haul optical communications systems. Based on the integration of several Analog Devices amplifier circuits, as well as other proprietary linear technologies, the ADN8830 is designed to improve control of the TEC, a critical component in maintaining laser temperature in optical communications systems.
Typical high-channel count DWDM systems (up to 160 channels per fiber) require high-precision temperature control in order to stabilize specific laser wavelengths. The ADN8830 addresses this design challenge by enabling very precise temperature control and laser system stability. Improving on previous solutions, the ADN8830 features a patent-pending, high-efficiency switching output architecture and a patented high-precision, auto-zero front end, the combination of which results in very low noise for a "quiet" laser environment, which makes for more accurate signal transmission and reception.
The ADN8830 provides laser temperature control with high temperature stability of +/- 0.01 degrees C, greater than 90 percent efficiency and lower than 1 percent ripple noise performance. The chip also features system-supervising functions such as real-time temperature monitoring, temperature lock indication, along with switching frequency and phase control. Its wave-locker input function enables higher wavelength accuracy -- so critical in DWDM systems. The ADN8830 also is the first TEC controller available in a 5x5 millimeter chip-scale package, which greatly reduces board space.
The ADN8830 is sampling now and is priced at $19 in 1,000-piece quantities.
About Analog Devices:
Analog Devices is a manufacturer of precision high-performance integrated circuits used in analog and digital signal processing applications. For more information, visit www.analog.com.