Development and Characterization of 100 Gb/s Data Communication VCSELs

Multi-mode vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) with improved bandwidth and noise performance have been developed for 100 Gb/s data communication links over multi-mode fiber. The VCSELs are designed for the peak multi-mode fiber bandwidth at 850 nm to maximize reach. The small-signal modulation 3dB bandwidth exceeds 25 GHz over temperature and relative intensity noise is below -145 dB/Hz. Transmission of 53.125 GBd PAM-4 signals over a 100m OM4 fiber is demonstrated by using equalization on both transmit and receive side. The transmitter and dispersion eye closure quaternary (TDECQ) penalty is below 4 dB for VCSEL operating up to 75°C.