Higher-order modulation for client optics

Abstract

Higher-order modulation is being studied for future 100G, 400G, and faster client optics. Amplitude, phase, and multi-subcarrier modulation approaches, used separately and in combination with each other, are being considered. Increased penalties due to higher-order modulation greater sensitivity to link impairments require use of DSP algorithms implemented in advanced CMOS nodes to close the link budget. DSP also enables programmability to reconfigure the optics for different applications and link conditions.