Broadcom BCM8152CIFBG: High-Performance 28Gbaud Linear TIA for Coherent Optical Modules

The exponential growth in global data traffic, driven by cloud services, 5G deployment, and AI infrastructure, demands continuous innovation in optical communication technology. At the heart of next-generation coherent optical modules lies a critical component: the Transimpedance Amplifier (TIA). The Broadcom BCM8152CIFBG stands out as a premier solution, engineered to meet the stringent performance requirements of modern 100G/200G/400G+ coherent DWDM systems.

This device is a high-performance linear TIA designed specifically for 28Gbaud (and beyond) coherent applications. Its primary function is to accurately convert the extremely weak photocurrent from a coherent receiver's photodiodes into a clean, amplified voltage signal with minimal distortion. This precision is paramount for recovering the complex phase and amplitude information encoded in the optical signal, which is the foundation of high-order modulation schemes like DP-16QAM and DP-64QAM used for high spectral efficiency.

Key to its performance is an exceptionally low input-referred noise density, a critical parameter that directly determines the receiver's sensitivity. By minimizing added noise, the BCM8152CIFBG ensures that even the faintest signals can be detected and amplified, thereby extending the possible reach of an optical link or improving the system's margin. Furthermore, it offers a high linearity over a wide dynamic range. This linearity is crucial for accurately amplifying signals without introducing intermodulation distortion, which is especially important in dynamic network environments where signal power can vary significantly.

The device integrates four separate TIA channels, making it an ideal match for the balanced photodiodes in a polarization-diversity coherent receiver. Its compact form factor and low power consumption are essential for dense integration within pluggable modules like QSFP-DD and OSFP, which have strict thermal and space constraints. Advanced features such as onboard diagnostics, gain control, and a loss-of-signal (LOS) indicator provide module designers with the tools necessary for robust performance monitoring and system control.

In summary, the Broadcom BCM8152CIFBG is a cornerstone technology that enables the high-speed, high-capacity optical networks forming the internet's backbone. Its combination of low noise, high linearity, and integration empowers the development of more powerful, efficient, and compact coherent transceivers.

ICGOODFIND: A pivotal component for next-gen coherent optics, the BCM8152CIFBG excels with its ultra-low noise and high linearity, enabling higher data rates and longer reach in compact module form factors.

Keywords: Coherent Optical Receiver, Transimpedance Amplifier (TIA), Low Noise Amplifier, 28Gbaud, Dynamic Range