High-speed optical modulators and photonic sideband management

This chapter shows mathematical expressions for various types of electro-optic modulators, such as, intensity modulators, single-sideband modulators, frequencyshift- keying modulators, phase-shift-keying modulators, etc, based on optical phase modulation. We also discuss electrode structures for high-speed operation. Resonant electrodes can enhance modulation efficiency in a particular band. Design schemes for two types of resonant electrodes: asymmetric resonant structure and double-stub structure, are given. Most important application of optical modulators is conversion of electric signals into lightwave signals. This is indispensable to high-speed optical links. However, recently, we need new functions such as optical label processing at nodes, signal timing control to prevent packet collision, etc. In addition to basic function of optical modulators, this chapter describes the photonic sideband management techniques which can manipulate optical or electrical signals in time or frequency domain, by using sideband generation at the modulators.