Photonics technology integrates fiber-optics and silicon

Photonics technology integrates fiber-optics and silicon

Delivering an optical modulation of 10 Gbits/s, CMOS photonics technology from semiconductor developer Luxtera (Carlsbad, CA) makes it possible to integrate high-speed optical fiber interfaces in silicon devices produced in an industry-standard CMOS fabrication process. By reducing the use of expensive III-V semiconductors, the technology will give computer and communication OEMs the performance benefits of optical-fiber communications while significantly lowering cost and device complexity.

Integrated photonics technology enables the use of low-cost CW lasers.

Built using a 0.13-µm process, the first device to use the technology is a CMOS optical modulator that performs its task in the silicon, enabling the use of low-cost CW lasers. With a projected availability of mid-2006, the device will operate at a speed of 10 Gbits/s in single-lambda and DWDM systems at a range of up to 2,000 m.

For more information, call Luxtera at 760-448-3520, email info@luxtera.com, or visit http://www.luxtera.com.

�Alix L.Paultre