Patent ID: 6457178
Filing Date: 2002-09-24
Classification: H04B,H04N

Abstract:
A communication system for processing forward and reverse signals, the communication system comprising:a node for converting a reverse broadband radio frequency (RF) signal to a reverse optical signal using pulse width modulation of an optical source, wherein the optical source that generates the reverse optical signal having pulses of durations that are proportional to amplitudes of the reverse broadband RF signal, the node comprising: a sampling circuit for sampling the reverse broadband RF signal to generate a sampled signal; a linear sweep generator for generating a ramp waveform; a comparator for comparing the ramp waveform and the sampled signal and for generating an output signal when the ramp waveform is equal to the sampled signal; logic for terminating generation of the ramp waveform by the linear sweep generator in response to reception of the output signal from the comparator; and a pulse generator for driving the optical source based upon duration of the ramp waveform.