Highland Technology has introduced the model J736, a tiny – only 2" x 3" – high-voltage optical-to-electrical converter. DC-coupled, it converts fiberoptic input to an adjustable-voltage digital output.
The J736 includes controls and test points for adjusting optical threshold and output voltage. An analog optical-power monitor output is provided, ideal for connecting to an oscilloscope when setting o/e conversion threshold and performing system link diagnostics. Optical threshold is adjustable from 0.2 mW to 2 mW, and output voltage is adjustable from 0.8 to 20 volts peak. Output signals are very clean over the full amplitude range, with rise and fall times typically 1 nanosecond and jitter below 10 picoseconds RMS.
The J736 features the T577 GaN output driver, capable of driving PIN diodes, optical modulators, bar lasers, and SiC mosfet gates. For distributing fast triggers and pulses in large systems, it is an excellent alternative to long lossy coaxial cable runs.