What occurs if the optical signal exceeds the maximum specified input power into a photodetector?

When the optical signal input power exceeds the maximum specified limit for a photodetector, it leads to nonlinear operation and distortion. This happens because photodetectors are designed to operate within a specific range of input power where they can linearly respond to the incoming light. When the power surpasses this range, the device cannot function linearly, resulting in saturation.

In such a state, the relationship between input optical power and output electrical signal becomes nonlinear, meaning that the output does not proportionally correspond to the input. This nonlinearity can introduce distortion in the signal, impacting the quality and integrity of the transmitted data. As a result, signals may become garbled or inaccurately interpreted, compromising the performance of the communication system.

Such adverse effects highlight the importance of adhering to the manufacturer’s specifications when designing and implementing fiber optic systems to ensure optimal performance without distortion or signal loss.