Application of parallel forward-error correction in two-dimensional optical-data links

Abstract

We propose the use of on-chip parallel forward-error correction (FEC) to improve the performance of two-dimensional (2-D) optical-data links (2-D-ODLs). Using an optical system model that describes a 2-D-ODL, we show the merits of using the Golay code as an FEC scheme to enable the reliable operation of 2-D-ODLs in the presence of erasures [e.g., a dead laser or photodetector, a dark fiber, an alignment problem, or a fault on the application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)]. In addition, we study the impact of using on-chip FEC in 2-D-ODLs and show that FEC can reduce the launched optical power requirements, reduce on-chip power consumption, and relax the throughput requirements of the optical system.