Simplified tuned optical receivers for use in lightwave optical subcarrier multiplex systems

In this paper we investigate the design and realization of broadband tee-tuned front-end optical receivers. The receivers will be implemented as a GaAs MMIC using the GEC/Marconi F20 foundry, the active devices are 0.5 micrometers gate-length GaAs MESFETs. Simple design equations are introduced that show the importance of the intrinsic noise parameters P, R and C, which are used to characterize the noise performance of such devices, as well as enabling initial values of tuning elements to be obtained. Finally measured results for a MMIC receiver designed are presented that confirm the expected noise performance as well as the validity of the design process.