Optical Detectors and Receivers

In this paper, I will review the subjects of optical detectors and optical receivers. I will do this from both a historical perspective and looking ahead toward useful progress that may occur in the future. I will focus, at times, on the lessons learned while performing my own research and development activities, and on how and why the technology has changed. I will share a few anecdotes, which will shed some light on the innovation process-at least as I experienced it.

I. Preface

In December of 2006, Verizon installed a fiber to my home. This fulfilled, for me, a vision that I was fortunate to be a participant in the creation of, some 30 years earlier.