20-40-Gbit/s-CLASS GaAs MESFET DIGITAL ICs FOR FUTURE OPTICAL FIBER COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

This paper describes recent advances in high-speed digital IC design technologies based on GaAs MESFETs for future high-speed optical communications systems. We devised new types of a data selector and flip-flops, which are key elements in performing high-speed digital functions (signal multiplexing, decision, demultiplexing, and frequency conversion) in front-end transmitter/receiver systems. Incorporating these circuit design technologies with state-of-the-art 0.12 μm gate-length GaAs MESFET process, we developed a DC-to-44-Gbit/s 2:1 data multiplexer IC, a DC-to 22-Gbit/s static decision IC, and a 20-to-40-Gbit/s dynamic decision IC. The fabricated ICs demonstrated record speed performances for GaAs MESFETs. Although further operating speed margin is still required, the GaAs MESFET is a potential candidate for 20- to 40-Gbit/s class applications.