Jan. 3, 2024
Optical Filters
Optical inter-satellite link communications are helping to drive a broader satellite communications market boom, enabling outcomes that are on par with or surpass those that can be achieved using radio frequency communications. As the key wavelength selective components for optical inter-satellite links, optical filters are essential to enable wavelength-division multiplexing functionality in satellite optical transceiver systems and support satellite-ground communication. In addition to overviewing the functionality of optical filters in these optical communications systems, this article examines other polarization selective/routing photonics components used in these systems. Focus is given to component selection and the evolution of the optical satcom market.
Key Technologies: Optical filters, Optical (satellite) communications, Space optics
Quantum Optical (Laser) Communications
For space-based laser communications, quantum key distribution (QKD) holds numerous advantages over systems that use optical fiber alone. Most notably, entanglement QKD systems can transmit quantum keys over much longer distances than fiber-only systems. This article spotlights a unique architecture -- a satellite-based entanglement QKD system -- that aims to deliver a secure key simultaneously to two ground-based stations. To obtain the full range of benefits delivered by QKD initiating from space orbit, the optical setup, laser system, and optomechanical design of the satellite (specifically, its thermal and energy management mechanisms) are optimized to ensure secure, robust communication.
Key Technologies: Optical (satellite) communications, Quantum communications, Space optics, Quantum metrology, fiber couplers
Optical Interconnect
The advent of silicon photonics continues to upend the optical market in the data center -- with significant ramifications for how future AI, cloud, and HPC systems will be designed, architected, and, ultimately, deployed. The core challenge is in connecting chips over distance with bandwidth, energy, and density metrics that are acceptable for a given application. Ayar Labs identifies and aims to clarify the confusion that stems from the fundamental differences between interconnect technologies, including co-packaged optics, pluggables, and in-package optical I/O. The article further examines the considerations starting to emerge for/from the various industry standards that are in play and anticipated for optical connections.
Key Technologies: Silicon photonics, Optical communications, Optical interconnect, Co-packaged optics, Optical computing, pluggable transceivers, active optical cable, co-packaged optics, linear-packaged optics, optical I/O
Silicon Photonics
The role of silicon photonics in optical interconnects for large-data applications is evolving, with an increased focus on the systems needed to handle sizeable and complex workloads with improved performance and efficiency. As AI networks expand simultaneously, silicon photonics and heterogeneous integration are poised to work in tandem to deliver lower latency and lower power consumption at the interconnect density and at a reasonable cost. This article looks at the key enablers of the silicon photonics roadmap, including advanced packaging technologies, high-volume manufacturing, and the functionality of the data center itself.
Key Technologies: Silicon photonics, Optical communications, Optical interconnect, Packaging, Co-packaged optics
EPIC Insights: Lidar
Lidars have risen to critical status for applications in robotics, industrial automation, and autonomous vehicles. The integration of lidar sensors into PICs has further increased the durability of this technology, enabling compact and more cost-effective systems. With perspectives from up and down the technology value chain, this article identifies emerging applications for on-chip lidar as the supporting technology continues its maturation.
Key Technologies: Lidar, On-Chip lidar, Integrated optics
Industry Insights: Interconnect Scaling
At the same time that engineers are working to combat the technological hurdles to scaling optical interconnects, the prospect of improving data center design efficiency offers intrigue, especially as existing architectures continue to take on expanded footprints in the age of AI and the Cloud. Radha Nagarajan, senior vice president and CTO of Marvell's Optical and Cloud Connectivity Group, looks at the opportunity for optical technology to support compact and cost-effective data center infrastructure. Continued technology gains, as well as a rethink of core technologies, are vital to the quest.
Key Technologies: Optical interconnect, Optical communications
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