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50-Gbit/s vertical illumination avalanche photodiode for 400-Gbit/s Ethernet systems
Optics Express
|July 1, 2014
Summary
This study demonstrates the first 50-Gbit/s error-free operation using a high-speed avalanche photodiode (APD). This high-performance APD shows promise for future high-speed optical communication systems.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Photonics
- Semiconductor devices
Background:
- High-speed optical communication systems require advanced photodetectors.
- Avalanche photodiodes (APDs) are critical components for detecting optical signals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate error-free operation of a high-speed APD at 50 Gbit/s.
- To characterize the performance of the APD for next-generation optical networks.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication and testing of a novel high-speed avalanche photodiode.
- Measurement of 3-dB bandwidth and receiver sensitivity.
- Evaluation of bit error rate (BER) performance with non-return to zero (NRZ) signals.
Main Results:
- Achieved 50-Gbit/s error-free operation for the first time with an APD.
- Demonstrated a 3-dB bandwidth of 35 GHz.
- Obtained excellent receiver sensitivity of -10.8 dBm at a BER of 10(-12).
Conclusions:
- The developed APD is suitable for 50 Gbit/s serial baud rate systems.
- This APD is a promising candidate for 400-Gbit/s Ethernet and similar applications.
- Confirms the potential of advanced APDs in high-capacity optical communication.

