Written by Paul Momtahan, Infinera
Discover the inner workings of a coherent optical engine, their functions, and how they utilize modulation for data transmission and reception.
Historically, optical communications across metro, long-haul, and submarine networks relied on direct-detect technology. However, the demand for faster optical connections has led to the adoption of more sophisticated modulations and improved utilization of fiber-optic cables. Coherent optics, utilizing phase, amplitude, and dual polarizations of light, have enabled significant enhancements in wavelength speeds and fiber capacity.
Fiber-optic communications heavily depend on lasers, photodetectors, and electronics housed within optical engines. These optical transmitters and receivers are integrated into high-performance coherent modules or pluggable optical modules for deployment in network switches and servers. This article delves into the modulation techniques employed and the construction of a coherent optical engine.
