Direct and External Hybrid Modulation Approaches for Access Networks

Abstract

The demand for low-cost high-speed transmission is a major challenge for 5G future networks. To meet this optical communication demand, holistic and painstaking approaches are required in designing a simplified system model. Since the demands for high bandwidth are growing at unprecedented speed as we approach the Zettabyte era, it is crucial to minimize chromatic dispersion (CD) associated to high bit-rate signals. Mitigating CD electronically comes at high cost which may not be compatible with 5G. Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) as an enabler for fast speed optical transmission is still undergoing its growth stage and its major speed and efficiency have not yet been attained. However, proper and right combination of components and approaches can potentiate this technology in a more cost-efficient way. Hybrid modulation (HM)-PIC presents a simplified approach in terms of cost and efficiency for 5G networks. Hybridization of existing modulation components and approaches in PIC can enhance the generation of high bit-rate signals without the need for electrical CD compensation. A detailed study of hybrid multilevel signal modulation concept as a valuable solution for Data Centers (DC) high data-rate signals and next-generation Passive Optical Networks (PONs) is proposed.

PON-FTTX Architecture and Bandwidth Analysis for Future Broadband Communications

“…EAM is a semiconductor device that can be used to modulate the intensity of a light beam by changing its absorption spectrum via applied electric voltage. In principle, EAM is designed through the Bulk process using the Frank-Keldish approach or through multi-quantum well (MQW) using quantum confined stacked effect (QCSE) [2]. QCSE is the dominant effect leading to electro-absorption of MQWs.…”

“…Unarguably, fronthaul, middlehaul, and backhaul jointly referred to as any-haul in 5/6G optical wireless communications (OWC) cannot sufficiently guarantee their expected output in terms of speed, latency, and spectral efficiency without improved channel architectures and that is where fiber comes in. Painstaking efforts are, however, ongoing for optimized and proper usage of fiber infrastructure in terms 5G and 6G Enhanced Broadband Communications of the transmitter, channel, and receiver redesigning to meet the requirements of future broadband communications [2].…”