CoRX – Coherent Optical IQ Receiver

Coherent Receiver with up to 60 GHz Bandwidth

The CORX – Coherent Optical IQ Receiver is a fully integrated, high-performance reception module for coherent optical signals in the C-band. With bandwidths up to 60 GHz and a built-in tunable laser, it is ideal for analyzing complex modulation formats and the highest symbol rates.

At a Glance

  • Dual-polarization coherent receiver
  • 20 GHz, 40 GHz, and 60 GHz bandwidth options
  • Integrated tunable C-band laser
  • Built-in transimpedance amplifiers with gain and peaking control
  • 4 single-ended RF outputs
  • Control via integrated web server (no software installation required)
  • SCPI command interface (USB/Ethernet)
  • 1U 19” rack-mountable chassis

Features

  • Optimized for High Symbol Rates: With its high bandwidth and optimized channel matching, the CORX enables analysis of dual-polarization multi-level signals with symbol rates exceeding 120 GBaud.
  • Integrated Tunable Laser: The internal laser covers the C-band (1528–1568 nm) with linewidth < 100 kHz, typical SMSR > 50 dB, and precise frequency tuning (1 MHz resolution, ±6 GHz fine tuning).
  • Adaptive RF Gain: Each of the four channels features software-controlled gain and peaking adjustment to compensate for fading or RF chain imperfections.
  • Easy to Use: The system is controlled via a built-in, browser-based web interface – no installation required. A SCPI interface is also available for automated scripting and remote control.

Applications

  • Front-end for real-time oscilloscopes
  • Testing and analysis of coherent modulation formats (e.g., QPSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM)
  • Reference receiver for transmitter characterization
  • DWDM system tests and transmission experiments
  • Development and validation of coherent DSP algorithms

Specifications

Specification Parameter
Wavelength range 1528 – 1568 nm
Frequency range (C-band) 190.70 – 196.65 THz
Bandwidth options (6 dB E/O) 20 GHz, 40 GHz, 60 GHz (typical: 25 / 40 / 60 GHz)
RF output signal 600 mVpp (single-ended, 4 channels)
RF connectors 1.85 mm, female, 50 Ohm
IQ skew ±3 ps
XY skew ±5 ps
Polarization extinction ratio > 17 dB
Phase angle error ±5°
Responsivity 0.035 A/W
VOA attenuation range 10 dB
Input power range (optical) Signal: 0 dBm, LO: up to 16 dBm
Max. optical input power 20 dBm (combined signal + LO)
Optical connector FC/APC
Fiber type (signal input) Polarization-maintaining PANDA fiber, PER > 20 dB (typ. 25 dB)
Operating temperature +10 °C to +35 °C (non-condensing)
Dimensions (W × H × D) 365 × 45 × 275 mm
Weight 3 kg