A Compact EADFB Laser Array Module for a Future 100-Gb/s Ethernet Transceiver

A compact electroabsorption modulators integrated distributed feedback (EADFB) laser array module has been developed for 100-Gb/s Ethernet. Four 25-Gb/s EADFB lasers and an optical multiplexer are monolithically integrated on one chip in an area of only 2 mm × 2.6 mm. As a result, a compact 12 mm × 20 mm EADFB laser array module is achieved. A bridge-type RF circuit board is employed to transmit high-frequency, 4 × 25-Gb/s, electrical signals effectively in a narrow package and improve the electrical/optical response of the module. The module has a 3-dB frequency bandwidth of 20 GHz for the four lanes assigned in 100-Gb/s Ethernet. Furthermore, the possibility of realizing low-driving voltage operation is investigated to reduce the power consumption of the module. An error-free transmission through 10 km of single-mode fiber at 100 Gb/s with a modulation voltage of only 1 V is demonstrated.