The Thorlabs MX10B is a high-speed digital reference transmitter for C-Band optical communication systems and testing applications. It integrates a Mach-Zehnder intensity modulator, limiting RF amplifier, integrated bias controller, and variable optical attenuator into a single user-configurable platform. Supporting data rates to 12.5 Gb/s, the MX10B generates precision modulated optical signals for RZ, NRZ, and OOK formats across research, development, and manufacturing environments. The device combines a tunable C-Band internal laser (1527.6–1565.5 nm, 13.5 dBm typical output) with proven lithium niobate modulator technology and accepts external optical sources from 1250 nm to 1610 nm.
Technical Specifications
• Maximum bit rate: 12.5 Gb/s
• Internal laser: C-Band tunable, 1527.6–1565.5 nm; L-Band and 1310 nm fixed variants available
• Internal laser output power: 13.5 dBm (typical)
• External input wavelength range: 1250–1610 nm
• Modulator type: Mach-Zehnder intensity modulator
• RF amplifier gain: 34 dB
• Small-signal bandwidth: 7 GHz
• Low-frequency cutoff: 100 kHz
• RF amplifier output swing: 3 V to 7 V (user-adjustable)
• RF optical extinction ratio: 13 dB (typical maximum)
• Half-wave voltage: 5.5 V
• Return loss (electrical): −10 dB (typical)
• Linewidth: 10 kHz
• Polarization extinction ratio: 18 dB
• Insertion loss: 5 dB at 1550 nm; 7 dB at 1310 nm (typical)
• Power monitor insertion loss: 0.1 dB (typical)
– Key Features
• Integrated bias controller with manual and automatic operation modes
• Variable optical attenuator for automatic or manual power control
• Support for RZ, NRZ, and OOK modulation formats
• Intuitive touchscreen interface with USB and RS-232 remote control
• External modulator driver capability via RF loop-back connection
– Typical Applications
• High-speed optical signal generation for component testing
• Digital transmission research and development
• Optical communication system validation
• Manufacturing test and quality assurance
– Compatibility & Integration
External optical sources spanning 1250–1610 nm integrate directly. Remote control via USB or RS-232 enables system integration. CAD files in PDF, DXF, Solidworks, eDrawing, and Step formats support mechanical design workflows.
