SEPTEMBER 19, 2006 -- Micrel Inc. (search Micrel) has launched a 3.2-Gbit/sec CML limiting post amplifier with high-gain TTL loss-of-signal detection, designed for use in fiber-optic receivers. Applications include APON, BPON, EPON/GEPON, and GPON; Gigabit Ethernet; 1X and 2X Fibre Channel; SONET/SDH: OC 3/12/24/48 - STM 1/4/8/16; and high-gain line drivers and line receivers.

"This product is ideally suited for multi-rate applications where the same post amplifier is optimized to operate over a wide range of data rates, 155 Mbits/sec to 3.2 Gbits/sec, without using an external capacitor or any special compensation," explains Thomas S. Wong, vice president, high-bandwidth products for Micrel. "It is also best-suited for applications requiring a very sensitive Loss-of-Signal (LOS) detection."

In a fiber-optic module, the SY88343DL connects to a typical transimpedance amplifier (TIA). The linear signal output from a TIA can contain significant noise and may vary in amplitude over time. The SY88343DL is able to quantize these signals and output CML-level waveforms to ensure very low noise levels, say company representatives. The chip features wide bandwidth and high gain; signals with data rates up to 3.2 Gbits/sec and as small as 5mVpp can be amplified to drive devices with CML inputs or AC-coupled CML/PECL inputs. The IC operates from a single 3.3-V power supply, over temperatures ranging from -40 ° C to +85 ° C and come in 3mm x 3mm 16-pin MLF packaging.

The SY88343DL is currently available in volume with pricing starting at $2.40 for 1,000-unit quantities.