OptoElectronic Technology Consortium (OETC) parallel optical data link: components, system applications, and simulation tools

This paper discusses the present state of the art of components, systems, and application technology related to parallel optical data links (ODL) as demonstrated by the OptoElectronic Technology Consortium (OETC). Parallel ODL technology is poised for large volume commercialization despite some uncertainties in industrial standards and system applications. This is fueled by the demand for high-bandwidth to support the upcoming information age. To meet the need for low-cost, broadband digital multimedia services, parallel ODL technology faces the challenge of providing reasonable cost/performance ratios when compared with other established technologies. Responding to this challenge has required the integration of a number of state-of-the-art component technologies (e.g. VCSEL, monolithic integrated photoreceiver, MCM, GaAs IC, optical array connector and cable) with system designs and applications.