A bridge type optoelectronic sample and hold circuit

A novel bridge type optoelectronic (OE) sample and hold circuit based upon current steering is presented for the first time and experimentally tested. Comparison between this circuit and a more conventional or direct OE sample and hold circuit which draws charge directly from the signal source shows that the bridge type is clearly superior in performance to the direct OE circuit. When a high speed signal is to be sampled with considerable precision, the bridge type OE sample and hold circuit offers high charging capability, much needed isolation, and reduced time jitter, distinct advantages over electronic sample and hold circuits