High-Speed Optical Data Link for Interconnection between LSI Modules
Abstract
An investigation of the use of optical communications for interconnecting AADC modules is performed. Both system and optoelectronic device studies are performed. An investigation of various light sources (primarily light emitting diodes (LEDs) and injection laser diodes) and photodetectors (silicon and germanium photodiodes (PDs), phototransistors, etc.) is performed, and the properties of these devices are analyzed. The most appropriate light emitters for near term applications are GaAsLEDs and heterostructure (or Large Optical Cavity) injection lasers for future applications. Silicon PIN photodiodes meet the present photodetectors' requirements for the AADC, or avalanche photodiodes can be used where photocurrent gain and/or larger bandwidths are required. A study of mounting techniques for the LEDs and PDs is performed with respect to the mechanical and optical properties of the devices. This investigation yielded two general configurations, on-wafer and off-wafer. Even though the on-wafer approach may result in somewhat higher speed capability, the mechanical and optical complexity involved indicates that the off-wafer mounting of the optoelectronic devices is presently a more feasible and economical approach. Various conceptual designs of optically interconnecting the AADC moudles are investigated. A candidate configuration is established where the optical path extends from the optoelectronic devices to the edge of the module via a light guide and is routed to another module via fiber optics which is located in the side panels. A theoretical analysis of the light coupling losses at the fiber/fiber interface is performed and experimental data taken.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0911412
Entities
People
- Armand D. Damari
- Daniel J. Stigliani Jr.
- Harold H. Bloem
- Henry C. Farrell
- Roy C. Clapper
Organizations
- International Business Machines Corporation (Armonk, NY)