End-to-End Optimization of Directly Modulated Laser Links using Chirp-Aware Modeling

TL;DR

This paper presents a comprehensive optimization method for directly-modulated laser links that considers chirp effects, leading to improved performance over traditional equalization techniques.

Contribution

It introduces a joint optimization framework for transmitter and receiver parameters that accounts for chirp, enhancing laser link performance.

Findings

Outperforms Volterra post-equalization at multiple symbol rates

Achieves better rate and reach in laser communication links

Demonstrates the effectiveness of chirp-aware modeling

Abstract

The rate and reach of directly-modulated laser links is often limited by the interplay between chirp and fiber chromatic dispersion. We address this by optimizing the transmitter, receiver, bias and peak-to-peak current to the laser jointly. Our approach outperforms Volterra post-equalization at various symbol rates.