Low-cost High-Speed Optical Links for Advanced Avionics Data networks

Fiber optic links are becoming integral part of the high speed communications and signal processing environment. With excellent immunity to EMI, almost unlimited bandwidth and low loss over large distances, digital and analog fiber optical links are preferred for many DOD applications. The incorporation of Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) through the same single mode fiber is able to multiply the data rates through the fiber without the need to install additional fibers for the links. The objective of this research is to develop high performance digital links in the range of 4-8Gb/s or higher data rates with low noise, high dynamic range, low error rate and stability. PES has a strong background in developing high performance analog and digital fiber optical links. In phase I of this project, PES will study the Navy's need in detail and design a complete COTS components and software protocol based solution for the system. In addition , we will analyze the various aspects of the design of the digital fiber optic link in terms of loss, frequency response, noise figures, dynamic range and link latency. On the basis of the analytical prediction we will design,fabricate,charecterize and demonstrate a 4-8Gb/s directly modulated link usung availble laser diodes and photo-detectors. In phase II, we will extend our design to fabricate the state of the art transmit/receive modules as well as a complete link using COTS laser diodes, detectors and protocol for the broadband operation from 4 to 8 Gb/s or higher speed. The links will be low cost and can be made available to Navy at costs significantly lower than $1500 each. The fiber optic links will be operable over the MIL temperature range and will be ruggedized to MIL specifications in phase II. The links will be manufactured at low cost in phase III.