CyOptics Inc., a developer of Indium Phosphide-based active optical components, introduced its 10Gbps Electro-Absorption Modulator (EAM), a highly compact, low cost modulator, targeted at replacement of the traditional Lithium Niobate modulators in metro and long reach applications.
Transmission experiments show that the CyOptics EAM provides error-free 10Gbps operation on uncompensated spans of over 100km. This performance translates to transmission of 500km and further in long reach WDM applications, which include chromatic dispersion compensation.
Fabricated using mature semiconductor processing technology, the Indium Phosphide (InP)-based EAM provides manufacturability, resulting lower cost while improving performance. The EAM is hermetically sealed in a compact, 0.75" x 0.63" package. In addition, the EAM's low drive voltage requirements allow the use of a wide selection of low-cost drivers, with prices of $130-400, in contrast to $1,000 and more for typical Lithium Niobate modulator drivers. Pricing for the 10Gbps EAM itself is $1,500 at quantities of 1,000 units.
EAMs use the electro-absorption (Franz-Keldysh) effect in InP to modulate light. The actual device, which is under 1mm long, is coupled to a high-speed electronic drive signal and to an optical fiber. When negative voltage is applied, the device becomes opaque and light is blocked. At zero voltage, the device is transparent and light passes through it. Acting as a shutter, the 10Gbps EAM can be turned on and off 10 billion times a second, sending 10 billion bits of data per second over an optical network.
About CyOptics:
CyOptics was founded in early 1999, to develop technology for 10 and 40Gbps active optical components. For more information, visit www.cyoptics.com.