Light modulation

摘要

The present invention relates to a modulated light source (10), in particular for use as part of an opto-electronic communication network. The modulated light source (10) has a laser (12) and an external electro-optic modulator (16) for modulating the intensity of light produced by the laser (12). A temperature sensor (30) senses the temperature of the laser (12) and the modulator (16). A control circuit connected to the temperature sensor (30) adjusts the bias on the modulator (16) so that the band edge of the modulator follows the changes in wavelength of the laser (12) as the laser (12) warms up during operation. This avoids the need for a cooling element to keep the temperature of the laser (12) constant.