Optical Module Driver Notch Coaxial Pin Signal Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing hierarchical arrangement of optical modulators and drivers connected by flexible printed circuits (FPCs) leads to increased mounting area and deterioration of high-frequency signal characteristics due to signal attenuation caused by the lengthening of the FPC, which is exacerbated by the accommodation of the driver within the optical modulator's package.
Innovation Solution
An optical module configuration where a driver is accommodated in a notch of the optical modulator, utilizing a coaxial pin connected to opposing connectors to minimize signal length and improve high-frequency characteristics, reducing the mounting area and signal attenuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the driver is accommodated in the notch formed in the package of the optical modulator to reduce mounting area, then the mounting area is reduced, but the FPC becomes longer causing increased signal attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The driver and optical modulator are merged into a single integrated unit by accommodating the driver within the notch of the optical modulator package, eliminating the need for external FPC connection and thereby reducing signal attenuation while maintaining compact mounting area
Solution Approach 2:
A coaxial connector is introduced as an intermediary component to replace the FPC for electrical connection between the driver and optical modulator, providing a shorter and more reliable signal transmission path that reduces attenuation of high-frequency signals
2Device complexity
If the optical modulator and driver are hierarchically arranged by using different substrates and connected by FPC, then the connection is simplified, but the arrangement space is separated increasing the mounting area
Solution Approach 1:
The driver and optical modulator are merged into a single integrated unit by accommodating the driver within the notch of the optical modulator package, eliminating the need for separate substrate arrangement and reducing overall mounting area
Solution Approach 2:
The driver is nested within the optical modulator package by placing it in the notch, creating a compact hierarchical structure where one component is contained within another, thereby reducing the overall footprint while maintaining functional separation
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module includes a driver that generates an electric signal and an optical modulator that has a notch in which at least a portion of the driver is accommodated and performs optical modulation using an electric signal generated by the driver. The optical module also includes a first connector electrically connected to the driver in the notch of the optical modulator. The optical module further includes a second connector provided on a surface of the notch of the optical modulator, the surface being opposed to the first connector. The second connector is electrically connected to the optical modulator. Furthermore, the optical module includes a coaxial pin that is connected to the first connector and the second connector and transmits the electric signal generated by the driver to the optical modulator.