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The Covid-19 pandemic showed forcefully the fundamental importance broadband data communication and the internet has in our society. Optical communications forms the undisputable backbone of this critical infrastructure, and it is supported by an interdisciplinary research community striving to improve and develop it further. Since the first 'Roadmap of optical communications' was published in 2016, the field has seen significant progress in all areas, and time is ripe for an update of the research status. The optical communications area has become increasingly diverse, covering research in fundamental physics and materials science, high-speed electronics and photonics, signal processing and coding, and communication systems and networks. This roadmap describes state-of-the-art and future outlooks in the optical communications field. The article is divided into 20 sections on selected areas, each written by a leading expert in that area. The sections are thematically grouped into four parts with 4–6 sections each, covering, respectively, hardware, algorithms, networks and systems. Each section describes the current status, the future challenges, and development needed to meet said challenges in their area. As a whole, this roadmap provides a comprehensive and unprecedented overview of the contemporary optical communications research, and should be essential reading for researchers at any level active in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occupying more channels increases transmission rate, however, crosstalk increases to an unacceptable level long before all 24 channels can be exploited. The crosstalk is not uniform between modes, hence occupying different subsets of channels leads to vastly different achievable transmission capacities. In addition to optimizing occupied subsets of channels, we adopt a bit loading approach. We examine several resource allocation strategies in a coherent detection system, starting with typical OAM mode group granularity (all channels in a group occupied) and ending with single channel granularity. By exhaustive search at mode group granularity, we find a bit load increasing the total capacity by $\sim$ 15% compared to a minimax solution for mode group allocation. Single channel granularity imposes great computational effort to optimize bit loading. We propose search algorithms that are computationally tractable and improve capacity by $\sim$ 30% vis-à-vis the minimax solution for mode groups. Finally, we examine the impact of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and receiver digital signal processing (DSP) complexity on the overall capacity. We include a discussion of DSP with limited or with no multi-input, multi-output (MIMO) processing.Our algorithms could be applied to any mode multiplexing fiber, as it only relies on knowledge of the crosstalk matrix across modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Segmenting a silicon modulator can substantially increase its electro-optic bandwidth without sacrificing modulation efficiency. We demonstrate a segmented silicon IQ modulator and experimentally explore both modulator design and operating point to optimize systems trade-offs in coherent detection. An electro-optic bandwidth of greater than 40 GHz is measured for a 4-mm-long segment, and greater than 60 GHz for a 2-mm-long segment. We evaluate optical transmission experimentally at 120 Gbaud for 16-ary quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) and 32QAM. The segments are operated in tandem with identical data at each segment. We present an experimental method to align data timing between the segments. Through the optimization of segment biasing and linear compensation, we have achieved a bit error rate (BER) of 16QAM well below the 20% forward error correction (FEC) threshold ($2\times 10^{-2}$). Adding nonlinear pre-compensation allows for 32QAM with a BER below the 24% FEC threshold ($4.5\times 10^{-2}$), enabling a net rate of 483 Gbs per polarization. The modulator can also be operated as an optical digital analogy converter for complex optical signal generation, for which 100 Gbs is achieved for a proof of concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a polarization-insensitive single sideband modulator based on silicon microring modulators (MRM). The proposed modulator splits and modulates the two orthogonal polarization states of an input laser in a loopback structure, with an on-chip silicon polarization splitter rotator (PSR), overcoming the polarization dependence of the silicon photonic modulator. The IQ configuration of the modulator enables single sideband modulation, thus improving the resistance of the modulated signal to chromatic dispersion and extending the transmission reach. The adoption of an MRM relieves the bandwidth limitation in polarization-diverse versions of SiP Mach-Zehnder modulators (MZM). Our experiments validate the proposed modulator polarization insensitivity and transmission performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon photonics can be used to increase the versatility of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM). Ultra-dense wavelength division multiplexing (uDWDM) shrinks channel spacing between WDM channels to decrease guard bands and increase spectral efficiency. Microring modulators (MRMs) provide a simple solution for uDWDM transmitters - they require no multiplexer/demultiplexer. When used with comb lasers, MRMs provide extremely compact and low power solutions. The spectral efficiency is limited by interchannel interference (ICI) from incomplete isolation of channels. We report an MRM-uDWDM transmitter achieving channel spacing comparable to the symbol rate in each WDM channel, reaching a spectrum occupation of 80%. By choosing the correct operating point, we demonstrate experimentally our fabricated MRM chip design causes no discernable ICI power penalty. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of MRM-uDWDM to support such dense channel spacing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only radio access networks can provide connectivity across multiple antenna sites to achieve the great leap forward in capacity targeted by 5G. Optical fronthaul remains a sticking point in that connectivity, and we make the case for analog radio over fiber signals and an optical access network smart edge to achieve the potential of radio access networks. The edge of the network would house the intelligence that coordinates wireless transmissions to minimize interference and maximize throughput. As silicon photonics provides a hardware platform well adapted to support optical fronthaul, it is poised to drive smart edge adoption. We draw out the issues in adopting our solution, propose a strategy for network densification, and cite recent demonstrations to support our approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 5G era, optical fronthaul is a major challenge in meeting growing demand. Edge computation and coordinated multipoint for 5G have stringent requirements for high throughput and low latency, either in single-wavelength or wavelength-division-multiplexing fronthaul. We propose a new silicon photonic solution to deliver 5G services on existing optical access networks with colorless optical network units, such as passive optical networks. The newly added 5G services form a heterogeneous optical access network. Using the existing fiber infrastructure, broadband services coexist with new 5G signals that can densify 5G coverage. The proposed scheme is both wavelength-selective (in the distribution network) and colorless (at the end user site). We use silicon microring modulators to create subcarriers slaved from the broadband service distributed carrier; additional microring modulators generate 5G signals exploiting those subcarriers. We experimentally validated the successful coexistence of 5G signals (various formats) with a broadband signal (various formats). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study orbital angular momentum (OAM) mode coupling in ring-core fibers (RCFs) due to elliptical shape deformation. We introduce a coupling model based on numerical mode solver outputs of perturbation. We show improved predictions in calculating coupling strength compared to the classical modeling approach. Our model captures and quantifies the disparate behaviors of coupling in lower and higher order degenerate OAM modes. The ideal orthogonality of modes is undermined by fiber imperfections. Our model predicts the OAM order at which the orthogonality within OAM mode pair is maintained despite elliptical deformation. We use our coupling model to simulate propagation effects and compare the performance of two fibers (thin and thick RCF) designed under the same constraints. Our numerical propagation results show different performance for the two fibers under the same level of elliptical deformation. This model uncovers distinct digital signal processing requirements for these two types of fiber, and predicts their signal-to-noise ratio penalty. For each fiber, we examine the large number of supported modes and find the optimal subset of mode groups, i.e., the groups with the lowest penalty. We show that this optimal subset is different from that predicted during the fiber design optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A frequency conversion mixer or single side band modulator using two cascaded MZM is proven experimentally. The operation of the circuit is modelled by a transfer matrix approach and verified by simulation in support of the experiment. A 10 GHz shift of the optical carrier in both left and right direction is demonstrated. The residual sideband suppression relative to the enhanced sideband is 22 dB for the best cases. Numerical analysis shows that the circuit has 3-dB optical and 3-dB electrical intrinsic advantage over the functionally equivalent DP-MZM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial multiplexing using orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes is an efficient means of scaling up the capacity of fiber-optic communications systems; integrated multiplexers are crucial enablers of this approach. OAM modes are circularly polarized when propagating in a fiber, however, OAM generators previously demonstrated in silicon photonics use locally linearly polarized emitters. Coupling from multiplexers to fibers in those solutions results in extra loss and complexity. Moreover, many of those solutions are based on resonator structures with strong wavelength dependence, and are thus incompatible with wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM). We experimentally demonstrate on-chip generation and multiplexing of OAM modes using an array of circularly polarized 2-D antennas with wide wavelength coverage. The proposed device was implemented on the standard 220-nm silicon-on-insulator platform. Optical vortex beams with OAM orders ranging from −3 to +3 in both left and right circular polarization states were generated from the same aperture across a wavelength range of 1540 to 1557 nm. This device could serve as a multiplexer or demultiplexer for up to 12 information bearing channels coupling into an OAM fiber, and is compatible with WDM multiplexing as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the design of ring core fibers (RCFs) supporting orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes for mode division multiplexing (MDM) transmission systems. We develop target criteria to optimize fiber designs using a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm under fabrication constraints. Effective index separation Δneff and polarization purity of each OAM mode are known to determine modal crosstalk levels. To reduce the complexity of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) processing required to compensate for modal crosstalk, we define an objective function based on these quantities. Our design analysis focuses on four different concepts of step-index RCF leading to different modal and structural characteristics. The optimum design for each concept is derived using the PSO algorithm. We investigate the impact of hollow-core and/or higher-order radial modes on Δneff and polarization purity. Design strategies for increasing Δneff and polarization purity are discussed in light of robustness to fabrication errors. We finally discuss the scalability and potential limitations of this design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We experimentally demonstrate the highest, to the best of our knowledge, reported net rate in a SiP IQ modulator. At 100 Gbaud 32QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation), and assuming 20% FEC (forward error correction) overhead, we achieved a dual polarization net rate of 833 Gb/s. This record was achieved by adapting digital signal processing to the challenging pattern dependent distortion encountered in the nonlinear and bandwidth limited regime. First the Mach Zehnder modulator (MZM) operating point (trading off modulation efficiency and 3 dB bandwidth) and linear compensation (electrical and optical) are jointly optimized. Next, the key application of nonlinear pre- and post-compensation are explored. We show that nonlinear processing at the transmitter, in our case an iterative learning control (ILC) method, is essential as post-processing alone could not achieve reliable communications at 100 Gbaud. Nonlinear post-compensation algorithms pushed the performance under the FEC threshold with the introduction of structured intersymbol interference in post processing and a simple one-step maximum likelihood sequence detector. We provide detailed descriptions of our methodology and results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose for the first time to use a silicon photonics (SiP) solution for a passive optical network to both reduce signal-signal beat interference (SSBI) and recuperate a part of the downlink carrier for use in the uplink. The Kramers–Kronig (KK) receiver for direct detection of advanced modulation formats overcomes SSBI at the cost of a moderate carrier to signal ratio ($>$ 6 dB) and high oversampling (4×). We propose an optical SSBI solution that achieves better performance than KK and requires only standard sampling and low (3 dB) carrier to signal power ratio. The receiver is conceived for the downlink in passive optical networks, where carrier signal must be husbanded for re-use in the uplink. Using cost effective and power efficient SiP, the receiver filters the incoming signal, suppresses SSBI, and routes a portion of the carrier for use in the uplink. We experimentally examine the SSBI suppression in this paper. While previous demonstrations used bulky, discrete components, we achieve significant Q-factor improvement with a simple SiP solution. We examine the optimal frequency offset between the carrier and the microring resonator center frequency. The robustness to frequency drift, as well as the impact of imperfect filtering, is discussed and quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurement of the state of polarization of light is essential in a vast number of applications, such as quantum and classical communications, remote sensing, astronomy, and biomedical diagnostics. Nanophotonic structures and integrated photonic circuits can, in many circumstances, replace conventional discrete optical components for miniature polarimeters and chip-scale polarimetry systems and thus significantly improve robustness while minimizing the footprint and cost. We propose and experimentally demonstrate two silicon photonic four-photodetector (PD) division-of-amplitude polarimeters (4PD-DOAPs) using a complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor-compatible photonic fabrication process. The first design targets minimizing the number of optical components. The second design makes use of a slightly more complex circuit design to achieve an optimal frame for measurements; this measurement frame minimizes and equalizes estimation variances in the presence of the additive white Gaussian noise and the signal dependent shot noise. Further theoretical examination reveals that within the optimal measurement frames for Stokes polarimeters, the DOAP with four PDs has the minimal equally weighted variance compared to those with a greater number of PDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon photonics has enormous potential for ultrahigh-capacity coherent optical transceivers. We demonstrate an in-phase and quadrature (IQ) modulator using silicon photonic traveling-wave modulators optimized for higher order quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM). Its optical and RF characteristics are studied thoroughly in simulation and experiment. We propose a system-orientated approach to optimization of the silicon photonic IQ modulator, which minimizes modulator-induced power penalty in a QAM transmission link. We examine the tradeoff between modulation efficiency and bandwidth for the optimal combination of modulator length and bias voltage to maximize the clear distance between adjacent constellation points. This optimum depends on baud rate and modulation format, as well as achievable driving voltage swing. Measured results confirm our prediction using the proposed methodology. Without precompensating bandwidth limitation of the modulator, net data rates up to 232 Gb/s (70 Gbaud 16-QAM) on single polarization are captured, indicating great potential for 400+ Gb/s dual-polarization transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We theoretically compare the performance of optical discrete multi-tone (DMT) and pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) using intensity modulated and direct detection. PAM is a lower cost, lower complexity solution than DMT, however, it is more vulnerable to chromatic dispersion on the C-band. We compare DMT and PAM taking into consideration the interplay of laser linewidth, fiber length, transmission rate, and channel bandwidth. We use a semi-analytical model to examine bit error rates. We study how system parameters shift the performance advantages between DMT and PAM. Our model can also be used to find the best hardware solution and frequency band for a target modulation format and bit error rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On-chip frequency comb generation is a promising solution for seeding a chip-scale optical transmitter for both Nyquist wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) and orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing. We demonstrate flexible frequency comb generation using a silicon photonic dual-drive Mach–Zehnder modulator fabricated on a CMOS-compatible process. Our on-chip comb has five lines spaced at 20 GHz with a high tone-to-noise ratio of about 40 dB after one stage optical amplification. Our back-to-back transmission achieves bit error rates (BERs) well below 2e-2, the threshold for 20% overhead forward error correction (FEC), for 800 Gb/s using 16-GBd 32QAM on five WDM channels. We also test a seamless 800-Gb/s super-channel using $5\times 20$ GBd 16QAM, with BER below the 7% overhead FEC threshold of 3.8e-3. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of high-spectral-efficiency data carried by an all-silicon optical frequency comb. This establishes that a silicon optical frequency comb has sufficient optical signal-to-noise ratio for high-order QAM, as well as excellent stability for super-channels without guard bands, paving the way to an integrated high-spectral-efficiency multi-carrier optical transmitter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We experimentally investigate the feasibility of transmission of radio-frequency (RF) signals over a 900 m polarization-maintaining elliptical ring core fiber. No multiple-input–multiple output processing is used to recover the RF signals carried by different modes; we recover the 16 quadratic-amplitude modulation orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing RF signals with the same techniques used for single-mode fibers. For the first time, we report transmission of four RF streams over four channels in few-mode fibers. Also, for the first time, we transmit RF signals over two polarizations of a mode in few-mode fibers and successfully recover data in both polarizations without polarization tracking or digital signal processing to separate polarizations. Furthermore, we examine the impact of fiber bending on crosstalk among channels. We show that even under severe bending, the polarization states remain separated and the RF streams transmitted on polarization states of a mode could be recovered with low-power penalty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much attention has been focused on the use of scalar modes for space division multiplexing (SDM). Alternative vector mode bases offer another solution set for SDM, expanding the available trade-offs in system performance and complexity. We present two types of ring core fiber conceived and designed to explore SDM with fibers exhibiting low interactions between supported modes. We review demonstrations of fiber data transmission for two separate vector mode bases: one for orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes and one for linearly polarized vector (LPV) modes. The OAM mode demonstrations include short transmissions using commercially available transceivers, as well as kilometer length transmission at extended data rates. The LPV demonstrations span kilometer length transmissions at high data rate with coherent detection, as well as a radio over fiber experiment with direct detection of narrowband signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike linearly polarized modes in fiber, modes exploiting orbital angular momentum (OAM) are circularly polarized when propagating in fiber. The use of OAM modes for spatial multiplexing requires efficient, low cost mode generators and multiplexers. We propose such a device based on the standard 220-nm silicon-on-insulator platform, taking multiple single-mode data-modulated signals, and imprinting these signals on right- and left-circularly polarized OAM channels on a single, multiplexed output. The device is designed to easily couple to an OAM fiber with a ring-shaped core. This approach treating circular polarization within the multiplexer allows us to avoid the losses associated with filtering out unwanted polarization to create a single polarization. Designing the device to have an output matched to the OAM fiber mode profile also avoids mode size conversion. We describe our design methodology and optimization techniques using a transfer-matrix model and the finite-difference time-domain method. A candidate design is simulated and modal crosstalk is examined, showing that lowcrosstalk OAM multiplexing can be achieved through direct fiberto- chip coupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We measure the mode dependent loss (MDL) of a few-mode fiber (FMF) using an improved microwave interferometric technique. A frequency-swept microwave signal modulates a filtered optical incoherent source that is injected into the FMF under test. During propagation, the microwave signal carried by the various modes experiences different losses and delays before interfering at the photodetector. The fiber MDL, between mode groups, is computed from the interference pattern by measuring two different fiber lengths under the same excitation condition. This technique relies on the dominant excitation of the fundamental mode and therefore can measure high values of MDL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of fiber optic cable in support of bandwidth expansion has become de rigeur. Not only does optical fiber offer tremendous bandwidth, it is also low in attenuation, small in cross section, inexpensive, and impervious to electromagnetic interference, and there are significant economies of scale on components developed for the myriad of optical communications markets (long haul, fiber to the home, metro networks, etc.). Shorthaul requirements continue to grow and are expected to exceed the capacity of simple single mode fiber transmission. Spatial multiplexing is a new technique in fiber communications allowing fiber capacity to grow in another dimension by carrying signals on orthogonal modes of light. The short length and high capacity requirements for data center and fronthaul links make them well suited for exploitation of orbital angular momentum (OAM) of light in spatial multiplexing. We report experiments using commercial transceivers for OOK at 10 Gb/s on three channels (30 Gb/s total on fundamental and two OAM modes), and 10 Gb/s OOK on fundamental and DP-QPSK at 100 Gb/s on two OAM modes. OOK transmission was error free (< 10-12), while DP-QPSK had error below 10-7. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We theoretically study the performance of single sideband discrete multitone (SSB-DMT) in the C-band with intensity modulation and direct detection. Our analysis allows us to quantify the impact of different noise sources such as signal-to-signal beating interference, phase-to-amplitude noise, attenuation, and receiver sensitivity on SSB-DMT. Our analytical tools also allow us to optimize the signal-to-carrier power ratio to maximize SSBDMT throughput.We provide equations to calculate bit error rate of bit allocated SSB-DMT. Finally, we examine various system parameters (laser linewidth, system bandwidth, and fiber length) to determine their impact on the performance of zero guard band SSB-DMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We experimentally study the modal interactions in mode division multiplexing (MDM) links supporting orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes of order zero and one. We use time of flight and channel impulse response measurements to characterize our OAM-MDM link and quantify modal impairments. We examine two OAM fibers with different index profiles and differential mode group delays (DMGD) between supported vector modes. Data transmission experiments probe the impact of modal impairments on digital signal processing complexity and achievable bit error rate for OAM-MDM link. We discuss in particular memory depth requirements for equalizers in separate mode detection schemes, and how memory depth varies with DMGD metrics as well as crosstalk level. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We experimentally demonstrate and evaluate an optimization strategy of a recirculating frequency shifting (RFS) optical comb for terabit flexible optical networks. We achieve an increased optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) with good stability (no system outage) by reducing erbium-doped-fiber amplifier gain in the shifting loop and deploying an in-loop noise suppression filter. We demonstrate that this source can support 20 × 200 Gb/s dual polarization Nyquist-16QAM transmission. With optimization, the RFS comb has greater and more uniform OSNR per channel. Flexible optical networks with software-defined networking are particularly suited to this enhanced RFS due to 1) programmable frequency spacing, 2) dense, stable spacing enabling very high spectral efficiency, 3) uniform performance across channels, and 4) sufficient OSNR for high-order modulation. The RFS can be used in short links when using low overhead forward error correction (FEC). Distances as great as 1150 km are achieved when using a 20% FEC overhead. Long-distance tests at 4 Tb/s result in a post-FEC net rate of 3.3 Tb/s and 6.3 bit/s/Hz of spectral efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We propose a new wireless communication architecture for implanted systems that simultaneously stimulates neurons and record neural responses. This architecture can support large numbers of electrodes (>500), providing 100 Mb/s for the downlink of stimulation signals, and gigabits per second for the uplink of neural recordings. We propose a full-duplex transceiver architecture that shares one antenna for both the ultrawideband (UWB) and the 2.45-GHz industrial, scientific, and medical band. A new pulse shaper is used for the gigabits per second uplink to simplify the transceiver design, while supporting several modulation formats with high data rates. To validate our system-level design for brain–machine interfaces, we present an ex-vivo experimental demonstration of the architecture. While the system design is for an integrated solution, the proof-of-concept demonstration uses discrete components. Good bit error rate performance over a biological channel at 0.5-, 1-, and 2-Gb/s data rates for uplink telemetry (UWB) and 100 Mb/s for downlink telemetry (2.45-GHz band) are achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Orbital angular momentum (OAM) of light is a promising means for exploiting the spatial dimension of light to increase the capacity of optical fiber links. We summarize how OAM enables efficient mode multiplexing for optical communications, with emphasis on the design of OAM fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we analyze the performance of code acquisition system in atmospheric optical code division multiple access (OCDMA) communications using optical orthogonal codes. Memory introduced by temporal correlation of optical fading process precludes us from using the Markov chain model for a code acquisition analysis. By considering this issue, we discuss how to extend the applicability of the Markov chain model to the atmospheric OCDMA communications. We analyze and compare the performance of correlator and chip level detector (CLD) structures in the acquisition system. In our analysis, we consider the effects of free space optical channel impairments, multiple access interference, and receiver thermal noise in the context of semi-classical photon-counting approach. Furthermore, we evaluate the performance of various two stage schemes that utilize different combinations of active correlator, matched filter, and CLD in search and verification stages, and we find the optimum acquisition scheme among them. Numerical results show significant improvement in reducing the acquisition time and required power for synchronization using our optimum scheme in the wireless OCDMA communications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate performance of optimized M-ary quadrature amplitude modulation (M-QAM) constellations in short-reach single-polarization (SP) and dual-polarization (DP) discrete multitone (DMT) with direct detection. The constellations are obtained by using an iterative gradient-search algorithm. For the nonsquare constellations, we find bit-to-symbol mappings with a blind search method. Our experiments show that the data rate can be improved in both SP and DP DMT systems by using optimized constellations instead of square M-QAM. Net data transmission rates of 165 and 152 Gb/s are respectively achieved for back-to-back and 2.2 km in a direct-detection DP DMT system assuming forward error correction threshold of 3.8\times 10^-3 . [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Two-layer step-index fibers have well-known cutoff solutions, while cutoff solutions for three-layer step-index fiber exist for only one geometry (ring fiber). We derive exact expressions for cutoff frequencies of both vector and scalar modes for all geometries of three-layer step-index fibers. While vector modes have been solved for these fibers, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first time cutoff expressions are reported. Expressions for cutoff help predict the number of supported modes for a given fiber profile. Using these cutoff expressions, we deduce characteristics of fiber modal content as a function of fiber profile. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this work, we present a clinical prototype with a wearable patient interface for microwave breast cancer detection. The long-term aim of the prototype is a breast health monitoring application. The system operates using multistatic time-domain pulsed radar, with 16 flexible antennas embedded into a bra. Unlike the previously reported, table-based prototype with a rigid cup-like holder, the wearable one requires no immersion medium and enables simple localization of breast surface. In comparison with the table-based prototype, the wearable one is also significantly more cost-effective and has a smaller footprint. To demonstrate the improved functionality of the wearable prototype, we here report the outcome of daily testing of the new, wearable prototype on a healthy volunteer over a 28-day period. The resulting data (both signals and reconstructed images) is compared to that obtained with our table-based prototype. We show that the use of the wearable prototype has improved the quality of collected volunteer data by every investigated measure. This work demonstrates the proof-of-concept for a wearable breast health monitoring array, which can be further optimized in the future for use with patients with various breast sizes and tissue densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a novel, fully-integrated, low-power full-duplex transceiver (FDT) to support high-density and bidirectional neural interfacing applications (high-channel count stimulating and recording) with asymmetric data rates: higher rates are required for recording (uplink signals) than stimulation (downlink signals). The transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX) share a single antenna to reduce implant size and complexity. The TX uses impulse radio ultra-wide band (IR-UWB) based on an edge combining approach, and the RX uses a novel 2.4-GHz on-off keying (OOK) receiver. Proper isolation (>20 dB) between the TX and RX path is implemented 1) by shaping the transmitted pulses to fall within the unregulated UWB spectrum (3.1–7 GHz), and 2) by space-efficient filtering (avoiding a circulator or diplexer) of the downlink OOK spectrum in the RX low-noise amplifier. The UWB 3.1–7 GHz transmitter can use either OOK or binary phase shift keying (BPSK) modulation schemes. The proposed FDT provides dual band 500-Mbps TX uplink data rate and 100 Mbps RX downlink data rate, and it is fully integrated into standard TSMC 0.18-\mum CMOS within a total size of 0.8 mm^2. The total measured power consumption is 10.4 mW in full duplex mode (5 mW at 100 Mbps for RX, and 5.4 mW at 500 Mbps or 10.8 pJ/bit for TX). Additionally, a 3-coil inductive link along with on-chip power management circuits allows to powering up the implantable transceiver wirelessly by delivering 25 mW extracted from a 13.56-MHz carrier signal, at a total efficiency of 41.6%. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Silicon photonic modulators have strong nonlinear behavior in phase modulation and frequency response, which needs to be carefully addressed when they are used in high-capacity transmission systems. We demonstrate a comprehensive model for depletion-mode Mach–Zehnder modulators (MZMs) on silicon-on-insulator, which provides a bridge between device design and system performance optimization. Our methodology involves physical models of p–n–junction phase-shifters and traveling-wave electrodes, as well as circuit models for the dynamic microwave-light interactions and time-domain analysis. Critical aspects in the transmission line design for high-frequency operation are numerically studied for a case of p–n–junction loaded coplanar-strip electrode. The dynamic interaction between light and microwave is simulated using a distributed circuit model solved by the finite-difference time-domain method, allowing for accurate prediction of both small-signal and large-signal responses. The validity of the model is confirmed by the comparison with experimental results for a series push–pull MZM with a 6 mm phase shifter. The simulation shows excellent agreement with experiment for high-speed operation up to 46 Gb/s. We show that this time-domain model can well predict the impact of the nonlinear behavior on the large-signal response, in contrast to the poor prediction from linear models in the frequency domain. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We experimentally demonstrate semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA)-based wavelength conversion of 3 × 25 GBd Nyquist-16QAM signal for a flex-grid network. The conversion efficiency (CE) and power penalty of each of three channels during single pumped SOA wavelength conversion are studied with respect to three different channel spacings (or frequency grids). The BER performance of all converted channels fall below the FEC threshold of 3.8 × 10−3, even with a 50 GHz grid. The results show the tradeoff between channel spacing, CE, and BER power penalty. Closely packed channels, which clearly increase spectral efficiency, are also shown to decrease conversion power penalty, potentially counter balancing increased crosstalk levels. These results can be used to optimize routing and spectrum allocation strategy when SOA wavelength converter(s) are present in the optical link. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The orbital-angular-momentum (OAM) modes in optical fibers have polarization mode dispersion (PMD) properties similar to those of single-mode fibers (SMFs). The +l and −l order OAM modes supported by the same fiber vector modes undergo random cross coupling and exhibit a frequency-dependent time delay. We name this effect “OAM-PMD” and extend the formalism developed for PMD in SMFs to describe OAM-PMD. The characteristics of the modal beat lengths, birefringence correlation lengths, and the mean value of OAM-PMD are investigated. A fixed-analyzer technique is proposed and demonstrated to characterize this phenomenon in OAM fibers. Two different types of OAM fiber are examined. The measured results are compared with the theoretical calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a carrier-reuse,single-feeder,wavelength-division-multiplexed, orthogonalfrequency-division-multiple-accesspassiveoptical network (WDM-OFDMA-PON) with colorless direct-detection optical network units and coherent detection optical line terminals. We examine two strategies by adjusting the frequency occupancy and the modulation format of the uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) signals. We investigate the impact of the DL signal-to-carrier ratio on the performance of both the UL andDLsignals via simulations and identify impairments limiting system performance. As a proof of concept,we demonstrate on a single wavelength channel a realization of each of the two scenarios investigated using orthogonal frequency division- multiplexing (OFDM). A quadrature phase-shift keying approachwith a wide spectrum and a narrow guard band achieves 21.6 Gb/s.A32-aryquadrature amplitudemodulation approach with a narrow spectrum and a wide guard band achieves 14.5 Gb/s and a span of over 80 km. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Implanted antennas for implant-to-air data communications must be composed of material compatible with biological tissues. We design single and dual-polarization antennas for wireless ultra-wideband neural recording systems using an inhomogeneous multi-layer model of the human head. Antennas made from flexible materials are more easily adapted to implantation; we investigate both flexible and rigid materials and examine performance trade-offs. The proposed antennas are designed to operate in a frequency range of 2–11 GHz (having S11 below -10~dB) covering both the 2.45 GHz (ISM) band and the 3.1–10.6 GHz UWB band. Measurements confirm simulation results showing flexible antennas have little performance degradation due to bending effects (in terms of impedance matching). Our miniaturized flexible antennas are 12~mm\times 12~mm and 10~mm\times 9~mm for single- and dual-polarizations, respectively. Finally, a comparison is made of four implantable antennas covering the 2-11 GHz range: 1) rigid, single polarization, 2) rigid, dual polarization, 3) flexible, single polarization and 4) flexible, dual polarization. In all cases a rigid antenna is used outside the body, with an appropriate polarization. Several advantages were confirmed for dual polarization antennas: 1) smaller size, 2) lower sensitivity to angular misalignments, and 3) higher fidelity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Radar-based microwave imaging has been widely studied for breast cancer detection in recent times. Sensing dielectric property differences of tissues has been studied over a wide frequency band for this application. We design single- and dual-polarization antennas for wireless ultrawideband breast cancer detection systems using an inhomogeneous multilayer model of the human breast. Antennas made from flexible materials are more easily adapted to wearable applications. Miniaturized flexible monopole and spiral antennas on a 50-μm Kapton polyimide are designed, using a high-frequency structure simulator, to be in contact with biological breast tissues. The proposed antennas are designed to operate in a frequency range of 2–4 GHz (with reflection coefficient (S11) below –10 dB). Measurements show that the flexible antennas have good impedance matching when in different positions with different curvature around the breast. Our miniaturized flexible antennas are 20 mm × 20 mm. Furthermore, two flexible conformal 4 × 4 ultrawideband antenna arrays (single and dual polarization), in a format similar to that of a bra, were developed for a radar-based breast cancer detection system. By using a reflector for the arrays, the penetration of the propagated electromagnetic waves from the antennas into the breast can be improved by factors of 3.3 and 2.6, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Wavelength routing based on arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) devices has been proposed as a disruptive technology for capacity, footprint, and flexibility requirements of cloud data centers. The limited buffering capacity of AWG-based routers, however, affects network throughput and makes them highly susceptible to data center traffic imbalance. A load-balancing stage, capable of evenly distributing the incoming traffic in both space and time, can improve network robustness and remedy congestion penalties. Robustness and scalability due to load balancing come at the cost of physical-layer complexities in terms of added cost, power consumption, and impairments. In this paper, we conduct a novel scalable analysis to study load-balancing tradeoffs between network-layer gains and physical-layer penalties in a multistage routing scenario. Our cross-layer simulations examine the requirements of a wavelength-routing load balancer based on AWG and tunable wavelength converters (TWCs) in order to achieve performance interesting for a data center. Our results point to the critical contribution of Q-factor degradation to load-balancer performance and encourage efforts in the design of novel router architectures, aiming to consolidate routing with scheduling-based load balancing. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]