Performance of quantum-dash mode-locked lasers (QD-MLLDs) for high-capacity coherent optical communications

We investigate the capabilities and limitations of quantum-dash mode-locked lasers (QD-MLLDs) as optical frequency comb sources in coherent optical communication systems. We demonstrate that QD-MLLDs are on par with conventional single-wavelength narrow linewidth laser sources and can support high symbol rates and modulation formats. We manage to transmit 64 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) signals up to 80 GBd over 80 km of standard single-mode fiber (SSMF), which highlights the distinctive phase noise performance of the QD-MLLD. Using a 38.5 GHz (6 dB bandwidth) silicon photonic (SiP) modulator, we achieve a maximum symbol rate of 104 GBd with 16QAM signaling and a maximum net rate of 416 Gb/s per carrier in a single polarization setup and after 80 km-SSMF transmission. We also compare QD-MLLD performance with commercial narrow-linewidth integrable tunable laser assemblies (ITLAs) and explore their potential for use as local oscillators (LOs) and signal carriers. The QD-MLLD has 45 comb lines usable for transmission at a frequency spacing of 25 GHz, and an RF linewidth of 35 kHz.