Multicore Fiber Optic Package Optical Subassembly for Wideband Digital and Analog Photonic Links

In this SBIR effort we will develop a balanced detection analog photonic link consisting of a DFB laser, a dual-output high-speed, low-Vp mach-zehnder modulator (MZM) and a high-power, high-linearity balanced photodetector (BPD) using a dual-core, single mode, multicore fiber (MCF) that is supplied by our subcontractor, OFS. We will design, fabricate and characterize (phase I) the MZM and the BPD, and develop packaging processes for their integrations with the dual-core MCF. Toward the end of phase I, we will conduct a proof-of-concept demonstration of a high-gain, low noise figure (NF), large spurious free dynamic range (SFDR) intensity modulated direct detection (IMDD) link. We will optimize (phase II) the critical component designs and refine their fabrication and packaging processes for MIL-qualified hermetic component packages that have reduced size, weight and power (SWaP). We will further demonstrate a 45GHz bandwidth, high gain, shot noise limited balanced detection IMDD link using a long, >100m, dual-core MCF. We will apply such a link to RF-over-fiber (RoF) applications and demonstrate >10 gigabits per second data rate. In addition, we will modify our existing high-speed modulator and photodiode designs to scale up the component bandwidth and show a path towards 100GHz link for emerging systems.