Method and circuit for encoding multi-level pulse amplitude modulated signals using integrated optoelectronic devices
US8238014B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 8, 2009 |
| Grant date | Aug 7, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 3, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F2201/58
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and systems for encoding multi-level pulse amplitude modulated signals using integrated optoelectronics are disclosed and may include generating a multi-level, amplitude-modulated optical signal utilizing an optical modulator driven by two or more electrical input signals. The optical modulator may include optical modulator elements coupled in series and configured into groups. The number of optical modular elements and groups may configure the number of levels in the multi-level amplitude modulated optical signal. Unit drivers may be coupled to each of the groups. The electrical input signals may be synchronized before communicating them to the unit drivers utilizing flip-flops. Phase addition may be synchronized utilizing one or more electrical delay lines. The optical modulator may be integrated on a single substrate, which may include one of: silicon, gallium arsenide, germanium, indium gallium arsenide, polymers, or indium phosphide. The optical modulator may include a Mach-Zehnder interferometer or one or more ring modulators.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.