MAX3643: Generating a TX Power Monitor in Burst Mode Applications (Using MAX3643 and the DS1863 or DS1865)

Abstract

Passive optical networks (PON) use burst type optical transmitters that transmit data (have optical output power) for a very short period of time. These transmitters are only active (bursting data) a small percentage of the time and the burst time will vary from one burst to another. These factors lead to difficulties in implementing a low-cost burst TX power monitor. This application note illustrates a simple and low-cost method for generating a burst TX power monitor using the MAX3643 laser driver and the DS1863 or DS1865 controllers. Test data is also provided illustrating the operation and performance of the monitor circuit. Read full article