15 Gbit/s high-gain limiting amplifier fabricatedusing Si-bipolarproduction technology

Abstract

A limiting amplifier IC with high gain (S21 = 52 dB) and wide input dynamic range (~46 dB) is presented which can be operated up to 15 Gbit/s. Low input return loss and two separate output buffers are further important features. The circuit, which will be used as a main amplifier for a 10.8 Gbit/s optical-fibre system, was fabricated using Si-bipolar production technology.