ThorLabs MX10B 12.5 Gb/s Max Digital Reference Transmitter, C-Band Laser, Limiting Amplifier

The Thorlabs MX10B is a high-speed digital reference transmitter for C-Band optical communication systems and testing applications. It integrates a Mach-Zehnder intensity modulator, limiting RF amplifier, integrated bias controller, and variable optical attenuator into a single user-configurable platform. Supporting data rates to 12.5 Gb/s, the MX10B generates precision modulated optical signals for RZ, NRZ, and OOK formats across research, development, and manufacturing environments.

The device combines a tunable C-Band internal laser (1527.6–1565.5 nm, 13.5 dBm typical output) with proven lithium niobate modulator technology and accepts external optical sources from 1250 nm to 1610 nm.

Technical Specifications

• Maximum bit rate: 12.5 Gb/s


• Internal laser: C-Band tunable, 1527.6–1565.5 nm; L-Band and 1310 nm fixed variants available


• Internal laser output power: 13.5 dBm (typical)


• External input wavelength range: 1250–1610 nm


• Modulator type: Mach-Zehnder intensity modulator


• RF amplifier gain: 34 dB


• Small-signal bandwidth: 7 GHz


• Low-frequency cutoff: 100 kHz


• RF amplifier output swing: 3 V to 7 V (user-adjustable)


• RF optical extinction ratio: 13 dB (typical maximum)


• Half-wave voltage: 5.5 V


• Return loss (electrical): −10 dB (typical)


• Linewidth: 10 kHz


• Polarization extinction ratio: 18 dB


• Insertion loss: 5 dB at 1550 nm; 7 dB at 1310 nm (typical)


• Power monitor insertion loss: 0.1 dB (typical)

Key Features

• Integrated bias controller with manual and automatic operation modes


• Variable optical attenuator for automatic or manual power control


• Support for RZ, NRZ, and OOK modulation formats


• Intuitive touchscreen interface with USB and RS-232 remote control


• External modulator driver capability via RF loop-back connection

Typical Applications

• High-speed optical signal generation for component testing


• Digital transmission research and development


• Optical communication system validation


• Manufacturing test and quality assurance

Compatibility & Integration External optical sources spanning 1250–1610 nm integrate directly. Remote control via USB or RS-232 enables system integration. CAD files in PDF, DXF, Solidworks, eDrawing, and Step formats support mechanical design workflows.