Abstract: A modulating retroreflector system includes a modulating retroreflector having a plurality of multiple quantum well modulator pixels and at least one transimpedance amplifier. The transimpedance amplifier receives a photocurrent generated by at least one of the plurality of modulator pixels. Each pixel is capacitively coupled to a current driver, which applies a high frequency digital electrical signal to the pixel when the voltage at the output of the transimpedance amplifier exceeds a threshold value. The modulated output of the retroreflector is reflected toward the source of the received optical beam. The system activates high frequency current drivers for only the illuminated pixels, eliminating the need for a separate angle of incidence sensor and reducing power requirements.

Abstract: A modulating retroreflector system includes a modulating retroreflector having a plurality of multiple quantum well modulator pixels and at least one transimpedance amplifier. The transimpedance amplifier receives a photocurrent generated by at least one of the plurality of modulator pixels. Each pixel is capacitively coupled to a current driver, which applies a high frequency digital electrical signal to the pixel when the voltage at the output of the transimpedance amplifier exceeds a threshold value. The modulated output of the retroreflector is reflected toward the source of the received optical beam. The system activates high frequency current drivers for only the illuminated pixels, eliminating the need for a separate angle of incidence sensor and reducing power requirements.

Abstract: A transmit optical subassembly (TOSA) includes a spot-size-converted (SSC) semiconductor laser coupled to an optical fiber without a lens or isolator. The spot-size-converted semiconductor laser includes an active region and an expander region that expands the spot size of the laser while maintaining efficient active laser performance. The SSC laser is coupled to a submount and passively aligned to an optical fiber positioned within a V-shaped groove formed within the submount. The SSC laser includes a narrow far field advantageous for providing a high coupling efficiency and high quality data transmission. The SSC laser is resistant to back reflection and produces a 1.3 or 1.55 micron optical wavelength and a data rate ranging from 1 to 10 Gbps. The TOSA provides high coupled power due to narrow far field, with potential extra reflection resistance due to absorption and mode transfer losses in coupling reflections through the expander back into the active region.