Demonstration and optimization of an optical impulse radio ultrawideband distribution system using a gain-switched laser transmitter

What we believe to be a novel system for the distribution of high-definition video streams in a residential environment is demonstrated. The system utilizes impulse radio ultrawideband (IR-UWB) technology integrated with a fiber-based distribution network. The pulses are directly generated in the optical domain, and the receiver is implemented with a carrier recovery system for the demodulation. The system was built and tested to demonstrate error-free operation of the distribution network and the receiver. Spectrum shaping by varying the pulse position within the bit slot to optimize system performance is also examined.