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Objectives
This project’s objective is to manufacture a high-sensitivity APD-TIA module for low-noise applications at 1550 nm. The primary target is to achieve a data rate of 2.5 Gb/s with a bit error rate of 10-6, using a low – 43 dBm of average optical power. This work delivers a high-performance APD, as verified through key APD parameters such as the dark current, responsivity, excess noise, and noise equivalent power.
Radiation hardness is also a key consideration given the space applications. The aim is to provide a APD-TIA module that can withstand a total ionising dose (TID) of 50 krad(Si), which is typical during space missions, without optoelectronic degradation. Resistance to non-ionising radiation (TNID) and single event effects (SEE) is also intended with a targeted in-orbit deployment lifetime of at least 7 years.
Challenges
Given the state of the art -43 dBm target, the main challenge of this project is to minimise the noise from APD and TIA. However, many design parameters that improve the noise also come at the expense of the bandwidth, hence a detailed trade-off analysis is needed to deliver a viable solution. A high responsivity from the module is also needed, requiring minimal coupling and reflection losses. Likewise, a radiation hard and low-noise TIA is needed to be integrated with the APD without significant circuit parasitics.
Plan
The project work is composed of 6 milestones each individually reported to ESA for approval. Milestone 1 (MS1) is composed of the literature review and initial technical baseline that is updated in MS2 where the design of the receiver is detailed. Later the implementation and verification plan is established in MS3, leading to the measurement stage that is assessed in MS4 and MS5. Finally, MS6 concludes the project with a detailed evaluation and presentation of the results.
Current Status
Currently, the ANELOQC project has submitted the reports for WP1 and WP2 and has had a telecom for MS1 with a second confirmation telecom planned. A more detailed design of the APD is underway for MS2 through simulations of specific APD structures. More procurement of parts for the BER setup has also taken place such as the VOA and fibres for the setup. Similarly, MACOM has been contacted for further details of the CGY2102UH/C2 TIA and its availability for initial trial bonding.
Companies
