Low-power-consumption 10-Gbps GaAs 8:1 multiplexer/1:8 demultiplexer

An ECL-compatible 10-Gbps GaAs 8:1 multiplexer (MUX) and 1:8 demultiplexer (DEMUX) has been developed. To decrease power consumption and to maximize phase margin, the clock-generating circuit employs source-coupled FET logic (SCFL) circuits. Also, cascade-connected source-follower circuits are used in the clock buffer. These circuits can reduce the power consumption when the fan-out number is large. Direct coupled FET logic (DCFL) circuits are employed for the 2:1 MUX/1:2 DEMUX circuits operating below 5 Gbps. The ICs, which are mounted on ceramic packages, operate at up to 10 Gbps with a power consumption of 1.2 W for the MUX and 1.0 W for the DEMUX at ECL-compatible supply voltages. These power-consumption values are one-third of the previously reported values.