High-performance end-to-end deep learning IM/DD link using optics-informed neural networks

In this paper, we introduce optics-informed Neural Networks and demonstrate experimentally how they can improve performance of End-to-End deep learning models for IM/DD optical transmission links. Optics-informed or optics-inspired NNs are defined as the type of DL models that rely on linear and/or nonlinear building blocks whose mathematical description stems directly from the respective response of photonic devices, drawing their mathematical framework from neuromorphic photonic hardware developments and properly adapting their DL training algorithms. We investigate the application of an optics-inspired activation function that can be obtained by a semiconductor-based nonlinear optical module and is a variant of the logistic sigmoid, referred to as the Photonic Sigmoid, in End-to-End Deep Learning configurations for fiber communication links. Compared to state-of-the-art ReLU-based configurations used in End-to-End DL fiber link demonstrations, optics-informed models based on the Photonic Sigmoid show improved noise- and chromatic dispersion compensation properties in fiber-optic IM/DD links. An extensive simulation and experimental analysis revealed significant performance benefits for the Photonic Sigmoid NNs that can reach below BER HD FEC limit for fiber lengths up to 42 km, at an effective bit transmission rate of 48 Gb/s.