Modelling of a modulator based on resonant tunnelling diode switching

The optoelectronic effect integrating a double barrier resonant tunnelling diode within a unipolar optical waveguide is analysed. Due to the non-linearities introduced by the double barrier resonant tunnelling diode (RTD) the unipolar optical waveguide (OW) can be employed both as an optical modulator and as an optical detector. The RTD also provides electrical gain over a wide bandwidth. The RTD-OW modelling results confirm preliminary experimental results, foreseeing modulation depths up to 23 dB and negative chirp in the wavelength range analysed (1500 nm to 1600 nm).