Intevac photodiodes fit OC-192, OC-768 systems

The company's high-speed PIN photodiodes are intended for integration into the receivers and transceivers of optical communication systems operating at OC-192 and OC-768 rates.

In the 1,300nm to 1,550nm range, the devices are specified at 0.8A/W (OC-192) and 0.5A/W (OC-768). They are offered as unpackaged 0.5-by-0.5mm die and can be furnished with metallization patterns that are suitable for wirebond attachment or flip-chip packaging with other circuit elements. Top and backside illuminated configurations are also available.

The photodiodes have <10nA dark current and high optical input power handling capability. The novel patented structure of these InGaAs devices permits operation at bias voltages down to 2V. They can likewise operate at higher bias to obtain output pulses up to 4V.