Work

Enhanced Linearity Dual-Drive Mach-Zehnder Modulator Assisted by Micro-Ring Resonator on SOI Platform

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We propose in this paper a highly linear dual-drive silicon-on-insulator Mach-Zehnder modulator (MZM) assisted by a micro-ring resonator for the microwave photonics and the integrated optical gyroscope applications. By optimizing the DC biases on both the micro-ring and the MZM arm, as well as the coupling efficiency between them, the modulator's output can be maximally tuned. At specific operating points, third-order intermodulation distortion (IMD3) is suppressed, enabling a linearized transfer function. Simulations demonstrate a spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of up to 142.3 dB·Hz2/3—a significant improvement over conventional dual-drive MZMs. Simulation results reveal that the modulator schematic we proposed is insensitive to the fab process as the SFDR can be optimized with the bias voltages after fabrication. This work provides a viable path toward high-performance modulators for high-density photonic-electronic integration.

Source: IEEE photonics journal

DOI: 10.1109/jphot.2025.3614582

Authors: Zhijie Zhou, Chonglei Sun, Liuge Du, Xiao Xu, Jia Zhao

Institution: Shandong University

Language: English

Topic: Photonic and Optical Devices

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,075

Funder: National Science and Technology Major Project