A low-cost multichannel optical transmission system for video signals

AbstructA novel low-cost multichannel optical transmission system for video signals is described. The system uses time-division multiplex pulse-position modulation (TDPPM). The transmitter and receiver are realized in a standard bipolar process while an external low-cost laser and PIN photodiode are used. A maximum of 16 channels can be multiplexed, while achieving a weighted signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 54 dB, a differential gain of 1% and a differential phase of 0.5". For a launched power of 0 dBm (pulse amplitude), the optical budget for a 45 dB weighted SNR exceeds 20 dB. Besides video signals the system is also capable of handling other signals such as digital coded audio signals or computer data. The feasibility of a four-channel system has been confirmed by measurements.