Mini 10 MHz–3 GHz Analog Wideband Transceiver Module – High‑Linearity RF over Fiber Link

The Mini 10 MHz–3 GHz Analog Wideband Transceiver Module from the ROF Series is a compact, low‑cost, high‑performance RF over fiber solution designed for demanding broadband applications. Engineered for excellent linearity and low noise, this analog optical transceiver pair enables transparent RF‑to‑optical and optical‑to‑RF conversion across a wide frequency range. With support from 10 MHz up to 3 GHz, it is well suited for modern wireless infrastructure, satellite ground systems, distributed antenna systems (DAS), and other high‑dynamic‑range RF distribution scenarios where conventional coaxial transmission is limited by loss, interference, or distance.

Each link consists of a compact transmitting module and a matching receiving module housed in tight cast metal enclosures that provide robust EMI shielding and mechanical stability. The RF interface uses standard 50 Ω SMA connectors for straightforward integration with existing RF systems, test equipment, and instrumentation. On the optical side, the modules are built around single‑mode fiber (9/125 µm) operation at 1310 nm or 1550 nm, with FC/APC connectors specified to minimize back reflection and maintain signal integrity. This architecture mirrors high‑end RF over fiber products used in professional telecom and satcom networks, while offering a smaller footprint and cost‑effective deployment.

The optical transmitter employs a linear, optically isolated FP or DFB laser, available at 1.3 µm and/or 1.5 µm, enabling flexible wavelength planning and compatibility with common telecom windows. At the receive end, a high‑performance InGaAs photodiode converts the optical signal back to RF with a flat frequency response from 10 MHz up to 3 GHz. Across this entire band, the module maintains a typical gain of 0–2 dB and a frequency flatness of approximately ±1.5 dB, which is comparable to other professional‑grade analog RF over fiber links on the market. The system is designed for a typical RF input range of −15 dBm to −5 dBm, with a 50 Ω impedance match and controlled VSWR to ensure minimal reflections and stable performance.

A key differentiator of this module is its high spurious‑free dynamic range (SFDR), supported by a 1 GHz input third‑order intercept point (IIP3) around 33 dBm. This high linearity allows the link to carry complex multi‑carrier, high‑crest‑factor signals such as those used in WiMAX, 4G LTE, and multi‑band repeaters without significant intermodulation distortion. As a result, the Mini 10 MHz–3 GHz module can be used in environments where clean analog transport is essential, including multi‑channel base station backhaul, satellite earth station IF distribution, and broadband RF monitoring systems. Temperature‑induced gain variation is tightly controlled, with typical gain drift of only about ±1.5 dB over the operating temperature range, helping maintain consistent link budgets in outdoor or industrial installations.

Designed with system integration in mind, the module operates from a single 5 V DC supply (4.5–5.5 V allowable range) and draws a modest total current of about 100 mA, making it suitable for space‑constrained or remote deployments where power is limited. The laser output power is typically 2–4 mW, and the receiver can safely handle up to 4 mW of optical input, simplifying optical power budgeting in point‑to‑point and short‑haul distribution networks. Environmental robustness is ensured with an operating temperature range from −25 °C to +65 °C and storage from −40 °C to +85 °C, aligning with conditions encountered in telecom shelters, shipborne systems, and outdoor RF enclosures.

The Mini 10 MHz–3 GHz Analog Wideband Transceiver Module is available in different configurations to match specific application requirements. Users can select FP or DFB laser types (with or without temperature control), 1310 nm or 1550 nm operating wavelengths, and two modulation bandwidth options: 10–1200 MHz for L‑band and sub‑GHz applications, or 10–3000 MHz for full broadband coverage. The module encapsulation is optimized for integration as a board‑level or enclosure‑mounted component, and the standard FC/APC optical connector can be replaced with user‑specified interfaces when required. These configuration options make the ROF Series a versatile platform comparable to other professional RF over fiber modules used in cellular, satellite, and defense communication systems.