Multi-data rate, burst-mode transimpedance amplifier (TIA) circuit

Abstract

A burst-mode TIA circuit for use in PON receivers is provided that supports multiple data rates, has high receiver sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and that performs burst-mode synchronization very quickly. The multi-rate burst-mode TIA circuit has a high-speed data path that has low input-referred noise. Based on the chosen data rate at which the multi-rate burst-mode TIA circuit will operate, the rate select switch selects an appropriate feedback resistor of the resistive feedback network.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to transimpedance amplifier (TIA) circuits. More particularly, the invention relates to a multi-data rate, burst-mode TIA circuit for fiber to the home (FTTH) applicationsBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]A typical optical receiver (Rx) includes at least one photodiode that detects an optical signal and converts it into an electrical current signal and at least one transimpedance amplifier (TIA) that converts the electrical current signal into an electrical voltage signal. The photodetector, which is typically a P-intrinsic-N (PIN) photodiode, produces an electrical current signal in response to light detected by the photodetector. The TIA converts this electrical current signal into an output voltage signal having some gain, commonly referred to as transimpedance gain. The TIA circuit typically includes several control loops for improving performance, such as a direct current (DC) offset correction loop, an automatic gain c...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a burst-mode transimpedance amplifier (TIA) circuit for optical receivers that supports multiple data rates, has high sensitivity, and wide dynamic range. The TIA circuit has a high-speed data path made up of only first and second gain stages, which results in very low input-referred noise. The circuit can amplify input data instantaneously for each asynchronous packet and perform burst-mode synchronization quickly. The technical effects of the invention include improved burst-mode receiver sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and fast synchronization.

Problems solved by technology

There are multiple challenges in designing burst-mode PON Receivers.

PON networks suffer from higher losses and hence require higher optical power budgets.

To achieve such low Rx sensitivity values, the TIA needs to either have very low input-referred noise or very high gain, both of which are difficult requirements to meet.

Another challenge in designing burst-mode PON receivers is that they need to have a wide dynamic range (typically greater than around 22 db for 10 G EPON) due to the higher optical power budget requirement.

Another challenge in designing burst-mode PON receivers is enabling the receiver to perform burst-mode synchronization very quickly.

Yet another challenge in designing today's burst-mode PON receivers is that they have to be capable of supporting multiple data rate operations.

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