Overview of applications of external modulation

External modulation, using integrated optics (IO) modulators, has recently received attention in analog fiber system applications. This focus is due to the availability of linear modulators capable of operating at the high optical powers now available from high-power CW diode and diode-pumped sources. Broadband high-dynamic-range fiber optic links based on integrated optic modulators show great promise for application in antenna remoting and RF signal distribution, such as in CATV networks. Some of the recent advances in these devices and their applications are briefly outlined. Advances in IO modulator technology have occurred in several areas. High-dynamic-range results have been achieved at RF frequencies in a number of LiNbO/sub 3/ modulator structures, including Mach-Zehnder, directional coupler, and synchronous directional couplers.<>