What Is an Electro-Optic Modulator?
An electro-optic modulator manipulates optical signals using electrical signals, pivotal for encoding information into light.
This device modulates light properties—such as phase, intensity, or frequency—by applying electrical signals, essential for transmitting information through optical fibers. This modulation process encodes data onto light, facilitating communication over distances.
Electro-optic modulators often use materials like lithium niobate (LiNbO3) or silicon, chosen for their responsiveness to electrical signals affecting light’s behavior.
These modulators are integral to optical communications, enabling fast and efficient data transfer. Their application spans various sectors, including healthcare and scientific research, underscoring their importance in modern communication networks like the Internet and telephone systems.