Imec Demonstrated High-Speed Optical Link
The research center achieved a 400 Gbps link speed using a new Ge/Si avalanche photodiode.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Semiconductors
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Imec has successfully demonstrated a 400 Gbps optical link by utilizing a germanium-on-silicon avalanche photodiode. This achievement enables increased link performance through higher sensitivity and bandwidth.
Why it matters
Improving receiver sensitivity by 3 dB provides engineers with a critical link margin. This allows for lower laser power consumption or the ability to account for higher optical losses in future data communication networks.
The device features a 100 GHz bandwidth and 1.8 A/W responsivity operating at 5 V. It utilizes a SACM architecture with a multiplication layer width scaled to below 100 nm.
The players
Imec
Imec is a global research and development organization focused on nanoelectronics and digital technologies.
The details
Imec integrated the new photodiode with a beyond-110 GHz C-band Ge/Si electro-absorption modulator to reach the 400 Gbps milestone. The design achieves these metrics by eliminating the charge layer and refining the multiplication layer architecture.
Timeline
In 2025, Imec unveiled a beyond-110 GHz C-band Ge/Si EAM.
Imec demonstrated the 400 Gbps optical link in September 2026.
The Tech Race
This development pushes the limits of silicon-based photonics, replacing legacy architecture designs that previously restricted bandwidth and sensitivity. It strengthens the position of germanium-on-silicon integration against competing fiber-optic communication standards.
This advancement aims to reduce energy consumption in large-scale data centers by increasing the efficiency of data transmission. Future hardware utilizing this technology could lead to more scalable network architectures for high-bandwidth applications.
The takeaway
Achieving higher link margins through architectural optimization is a primary strategy for scaling modern optical communications. Future research will focus on transitioning these laboratory demonstrations into reliable, integrated commercial components.
What happens next
Imec plans to improve the reliability of the avalanche photodiode across wider temperature and power conditions while working to integrate the device with high-speed receiver electronics.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest breakthroughs in the Semiconductors section.
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