I-Corps: Translation Potential of Photonic Analog-to-Digital Converters

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $50,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This I-Corps project is based on the development of a photonics (light-based) analog-to-digital converter (ADCs) system used in telecommunications, sensing, and computing. Analog-to-digital converters are indispensable hardware in modern technology as they play a crucial role in connecting the signal from an analog device such as a sensor with the digital world. However, current ADCs operate in the electrical domain and have strict trade-offs between speed, precision, and power due to the nature of electronic architectures. This technology is a light-based solution utilizing photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to address this challenge. To date, no photonic ADCs are available on the market due to fabrication and energy consumption issues associated with existing methods. The technology may provide the high-speed data processing required by artificial intelligence (AI) and internet of things (IOT) applications and may satisfy the need for energy-efficient, high-performance solutions across many industries. This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with a first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of photonic analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). The technology is focused on two approaches: all-optical passive (zero-power) and high-speed electro-optical converters using scalable and Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible photonic integrated platforms. The designs incorporate photonic integrated r

Key facts

NSF award ID
2532157
Awardee
University of Maryland, College Park (MD)
SAM.gov UEI
NPU8ULVAAS23
PI
Carlos A Rios Ocampo
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Optics and Photonics
Estimated total
$50,000
Funds obligated
$50,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
07/01/2025 → 12/31/2026