Laser Components’ new iXBlue MBC-DG-LAB automatic bias controllers lock the operating point of LiNbO3 Mach-Zehnder modulators, and ensure environmental conditions and stable operation over time.
The MBC-DG-LAB controllers are dither signal-based and therefore superimpose a low amplitude, low frequency tone on LiNbO3 Mach-Zehnder modulation signals. The resulting optical modulation is then detected and a digital signal processing technique, based on a FFT analysis principle, allows the operating point to be locked at the desired position. The controllers are continuously tuneable, allowing operation of the modulator at any point of its transfer function.
The new controllers have improved sensitivity and stability, and introduce an Autoset operation for the Quad/Min/Max modes, a graphical user interface, storage and recovery of the user parameters and USB communication.
The bias controllers are available as bench top instruments and OEM boards. They are especially well suited for digital and pulse applications.