A Gbyte/s Parallel Fiber-Optic Network Interface for Multimedia Applications

We explore parallel fiber-optics and single-chip CMOS interface solutions to support broadband multimedia applications in a small workgroup environment. Initial implementation of a network interface card used in our testbed of Intel Pentium-based PCs is described. Feasibility of a CMOS bridge to parallel optics is demonstrated using an adapter chip implemented in 0.5 μm CMOS technology for a point-to-point configuration and providing a measured peak bandwidth of 4.8 Gbit/s on independent transmit and receive directions. In addition, we describe the design of a Gbyte/s parallel fiber-optic network interface for a slotted ring network currently being developed. We present a medium access control to be implemented on a single CMOS chip. The proposed network is a potentially cost-effective solution for small workgroup clusters.