Embodiments of the present invention provide for enhanced monitoring of optical signal characteristics of an optical signal propagating in a signal channel of a photonic integrated circuit. The optical signal characteristics can be obtained with minimal signal loss in the optical signal path and reduced RF crosstalk, while the electrostatic discharge threshold for the photonic integrated circuit is increased, due to the inclusion of a second electro-optic element electrically coupled to a first electro-optic element as part of the signal channel.