Multi-function Mach-Zehnder modulator for pulse shaping and generation.

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Integrated Circuits
• Electrical Engineering

Background:

• Mach-Zehnder modulators (MZMs) are key components in photonic systems.
• Conventional MZM designs have limitations in functionality and require external drivers.
• There is a need for advanced integrated photonic circuits with enhanced capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel multi-function electronic-photonic integrated circuit (EPIC) design.
• To explore a new operation mode of a Mach-Zehnder modulator (MZM).
• To demonstrate integrated pre-emphasis and tunable optical pulse generation.

Main Methods:

• The proposed MZM design utilizes time-shifted signals with tunable amplitude in its two arms.
• Operation was studied in both linear (π/2 bias) and quadratic (π bias) regions.
• Compact models were built using device and electromagnetic simulators, followed by photonic circuit simulation.

Main Results:

• In the linear region, the MZM sums driving signals, enabling integrated pre-emphasis and eliminating the need for an external driver.
• In the quadratic region, the MZM generates optical pulses with tunable width at double the clock rate.
• Prototype circuit simulations confirmed the design's functionality and performance.

Conclusions:

• The novel MZM operation mode offers multi-functionality within a single EPIC.
• This design simplifies photonic systems by integrating pre-emphasis and enabling advanced pulse generation.
• The presented approach advances the capabilities of electronic-photonic integrated circuits.