Fiber Optic Detectors and Receivers Flashcards
What is used to convert light energy into electrical energy?
Photodiode
What are the two types of photodiodes?
PIN and APD
How is a PIN photodiode differ from a PN photodiode?
The PIN has an intrinsic layer between the p and the n region where as a PN does not.
What benefits does a PIN have over a PN photodiode?
The intrinsic layer creates a large depletion region that absorbs photons more efficiently
What does APD stand for?
Avalanche Photodiode
How does and avalanche photodiode operate?
Just a small bundle of photons causes the diode to release an avalanche of electrons through a process called photomultiplication
What is quantum efficiency?
how efficiently a photodiode can convert light energy to electrical energy
How well the photodiode converts a wavelength or a range of wavelengths of optical energy into electrical current is its?
Responsivity
What three factors affect the overall responsivity of a photodiode?
Semiconductor material makeup, wavelength, and diode construction
What is the dynamic range of any optical receiver?
the difference between the maximum and minimum optical input power that the receiver can accept?
What is the dynamic range measured in?
dB
What are the four groups of performance characteristics for optical receivers?
Recommended operating conditions
Electrical characteristics
Optical Characteristics
Data Rate
