Global optical modulator sales surpass $230m, will continue rising

16 Oct 2013

Analyst ElectroniCast details changing fortunes of electro-optical and electro-absorption technologies as data rates ramp up.

New market analysis of the consumption and technology trends around external modulators in optical fiber networks has been released by forecasting consultancy ElectroniCast Consultants, Aptos, CA, USA.

There are essentially two ways to modulate laser diodes: directly and indirectly (externally). In the forecast, ElectroniCast looks at the use of both Electro-Optic (E-O) and Electroabsorption (EA) modulators.

Technology trends - changing styles

Global consumption value (sales) of external modulators in optical fiber communication networks is projected to reach $229 million this year, 2013. Consumption of electro-optical (E-O) modulators will maintain its leading market position over electroabsorption (EA) modulators throughout the forecast period – 2013 through 2018.

The report details optical modulator use for the following transfer rate categories: less than 10Gbps; 10-40Gbps; and 40Gbps and higher. Stephen Montgomery, Director of the Fiber Optics Component Group at ElectroniCast, commented, “The dramatic push for faster bit-rates and extended connectivity of data centers, residential, mobile smartphones, and smart network communications will eventually drive networks to incorporate optical interfaces beyond 100G.”

The use of modulators with optical communication transmitters at rates of 10Gbps to 40Gbps is forecast to remain dominant in relative market share throughout 2013-2018. However, the 40Gbps and above category will increase at a faster annual pace and these sales are set to nearly catch-up in market share.

About the Author

Matthew Peach is a contributing editor to optics.org.