Introducing the Quantifi Photonics High-Precision Photocurrent Amplifier for PIC testing

Quantifi Photonics has introduced the PCA Series High-Precision Photocurrent Amplifier, designed specifically for Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) testing applications.

The role of photocurrent amplification in PIC testing

As the demand for PICs increases in telecommunications, data centers, and sensor technologies, precise, reliable and scalable test instrumentation becomes a critical bottleneck.

Characterizing, validating and testing Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) require highly accurate instruments capable of handling the intricate nature of photonic signals. When a photodiode within a PIC absorbs photons, it generates a small photocurrent which requires amplification to be accurately measured and analyzed.

The Quantified Photonics PCA Series High-Precision Photocurrent Amplifier is purpose-built to meet these rigorous testing demands, providing the confidence to accurately measure the performance of photonic components.

It amplifies weak photocurrents for detailed analysis and maintaining signal integrity with an ultra-low noise design and configurable frequency response, converting photocurrent to optical power for precise calibration.

The PCA Series is a versatile instrument, offering flexible control with digital and analog measurement options and adjustable bias voltage. A key feature is the instrument's analog output. By utilizing the PIC's internal photodiodes to detect changes in optical signal intensity, analog output enables fast analog control loops for rapid adjustment and precise alignment of optical components.

Key features

• Digital & Analog Photocurrent Measurement:
  Precisely control the photodiode (PD) under test to measure dark current and accurately characterize its responsiveness, leveraging digital and analog measurement.
• Analog Logarithmic Transimpedance Photocurrent Amplifier:
  Amplify low-level photocurrents via the high-gain analog signal output.
• Configurable Frequency Response:
  Customize the frequency response of the analog output digitally, ranging from 1 MHz down to 100 Hz, to suit various testing requirements.
• Adjustable Reverse Bias Voltage:
  Optimize the biasing of the photodiode with fine-tuned voltage control, adjustable in 0.01 V increments from 0 to 10 V.
• Supports Photodiode Responsivity Calibration:
  Utilize the amplifier as an optical power meter, converting PD current to equivalent optical power readings in milliwatts (mW) or decibels-milliwatts (dBm), facilitating comprehensive responsivity calibration.
• PXI Modular Format:
  Integrate this compact and modular amplifier seamlessly into PXI test systems, enabling scalable and efficient testing setups. The PXI platform enhances system reliability and simplifies system configuration, making it an ideal choice for both laboratory and field applications.
• User-Friendly Interface:
  Experience ease of use with our intuitive interface, featuring straightforward controls and indicators, facilitating quick setup and operation.

Applications

• Responsivity measurements
• Dark current measurements
• Shunt resistance measurements
• IV characteristics
• Noise measurement – NEP (noise equivalent power)
• Photodetector characterization (with various optical inputs)

Discover the Future of Photonic Testing

Discover the future of photonic testing with the PCA Series High-Precision Photocurrent Amplifier. Combining accurate performance, scalability, and ease of use, the PCA Series enables accurate and reliable PIC characterization and validation.