Emcore Corp of Alhambra, CA, USA – which provides indium phosphide (InP)-based optical chips, components, subsystems and systems for the broadband and specialty fiber-optics markets – is expanding production of DOCSIS 3.1, 1550nm CATV transmitters utilizing linear externally modulated laser (L-EML) technology. L-EML-based transmitters have achieved qualification with major cable multi-service operators (MSOs) and are in volume production. The new Medallion 8100 L-EML-based 1RU transmitter is on display for the first time publicly in the USA in booth #311 at the 2016 Cable-Tec Expo in Philadelphia, PA, USA (27-29 September).
Expanding on the firm's mixed-signal optics products, L-EML technology was invented, developed and is manufactured exclusively at Emcore. The L-EML device consists of a high-power, low-noise, narrow-linewidth laser combined with a proprietary highly linearized modulator in a monolithic assembly. It enables long-distance optical link performance approaching traditional lithium niobate-based externally modulated transmitters, but is more cost-effective for its targeted applications and far exceeds the performance of distributed feedback (DFB) laser-based systems, claims Emcore.
"With the rapid growth of next generation DOCSIS 3.1 deployments, Emcore developed a cost-effective solution that overcomes the technical limitations of linear DFBs, while pushing the boundaries of performance towards traditional, but higher-cost, lithium niobate-based solutions," says senior product line director Grant Olecko.
Emcore unveiled L-EML in June at the ANGACOM 2016 Exhibition & Congress for Broadband, Cable and Satellite in Cologne, Germany. "We continue to ramp production to meet demand following additional successful trials," says VP of marketing Gyo Shinozaki.
At the Cable-Tec Expo, Emcore is also showcasing its full system-level portfolio for CATV including the new Medallion 6100 series transmitters, the Medallion 7110 series of low-noise, high-power erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) and the Medallion 2100 optical A/B switch. In addition, Emcore is featuring its full line of DOCSIS 3.1 lasers, DFB CATV butterfly and TO-56 lasers, low-noise optical receivers, broadband photodiodes, and components for wireless and distributed antenna system (DAS) applications.
