Optimization of an avionic VCSEL-based optical link through large signal characterization

Optical communication systems have been widely preferred for network communications, especially for Datacoms Local Area Network links. The optical technology is an excellent candidate for on-board systems due to the potential weight saving and EMC immunity. According to the short length of the link and a cost saving, Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) and multimode fiber are the best solution for gigabit systems. In this context, we propose a modeling of 850nm VCSEL based on the rate equations analysis to predict the optical interconnect performances (jitter, bit error rate). Our aim is to define the operation conditions of VCSEL under large signal modulation in order to maximize the Extinction Ratio (current IOFF below threshold) without affecting link performances. The VCSEL model is developed to provide large signal modulation response. Biasing below threshold causes stochastic turn-on delay. Fluctuations of this delay occur, due to the spontaneous emission. This leads to additional turn-on jitter. These stochastic effects are included in the model by adding the Langevin photon and electron noise sources. The VCSEL behavior under high-speed modulation is studied to observe the transient response and extract the resonance frequency, overshoot and turn-on delay. The associated jitter is evaluated with the standard deviation of the turn-on delay probability density function. Simulations of stochastic and deterministic jitters are realized under different conditions of modulation (OFF current levels). Comparing simulations with measurement results carried out on VCSEL and a short haul gigabit link validates the approach

Bidirectional link mock-up for avionics applications

Copper-based networks have been extensively employed on aircraft to ensure the avionics data-communications. Since the Airbus A380 development, Avionic Data Communication Network (ADCN) has been implemented to ensure transmissions between avionic equipment. This system is based on the Avionic Full Duplex Ethernet (AFDX), and transfers data at rates up to 100 Mb/s. The need of faster communications systems, up to 1Gb/s, has led to great interest in fiber optic based networks. Beyond higher data rates capabilities, the fiber optics have additional benefits, compared to electrical cables, in terms of weight saving and electromagnetic interference immunity which is strongly needed at gigahertz bandwidths. Multimode fibers (MMF) are becoming increasingly attractive for short-haul (<300m) high-speed interconnections. Besides, Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) present interesting performances in comparison to edge-emitting lasers, cost effective and are widely chosen in this type of applications. We aim at achieving an entirely optical fiber Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) link based on 850nm VCSELs to interconnect avionic equipments. To meet IEEE 802.3 standards [1] and ADCN requirements [2], the fiber optic link must be full-duplex, bi-directional, on a single wavelength, and on the same fiber on up to 100m-distance. We have used, at each side of the link, a transceiver module developed for harsh environment applications. Also, there are multiple connections due to production breaks. These connections give birth to return loss (RL) and consequently crosstalk. One might pay attention to the impact of the RL on the link. We present the characterization of a mock-up and the comparison of experimental results with the GbE requirements

Modeling and characterization of VCSEL-based avionics full-duplex ethernet (AFDX) gigabit links

Low cost and intrinsic performances of 850 nm Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) compared to Light Emitting Diodes make them very attractive for high speed and short distances data communication links through optical fibers. Weight saving and Electromagnetic Interference withstanding requirements have led to the need of a reliable solution to improve existing avionics high speed buses (e.g. AFDX) up to 1Gbps over 100m. To predict and optimize the performance of the link, the physical behavior of the VCSEL must be well understood. First, a theoretical study is performed through the rate equations adapted to VCSEL in large signal modulation. Averaged turn-on delays and oscillation effects are analytically computed and analyzed for different values of the on - and off state currents. This will affect the eye pattern, timing jitter and Bit Error Rate (BER) of the signal that must remain within IEEE 802.3 standard limits. In particular, the off-state current is minimized below the threshold to allow the highest possible Extinction Ratio. At this level, the spontaneous emission is dominating and leads to significant turn-on delay, turn-on jitter and bit pattern effects. Also, the transverse multimode behavior of VCSELs, caused by Spatial Hole Burning leads to some dispersion in the fiber and degradation of BER. VCSEL to Multimode Fiber coupling model is provided for prediction and optimization of modal dispersion. Lastly, turn-on delay measurements are performed on a real mock-up and results are compared with calculations