A method and apparatus for receiving a digital signal having a plurality of significant bits of resolution. The apparatus includes a mode locked laser comprising a single output. The apparatus also includes a beam divider operable to receive the single output. The apparatus also includes a plurality of optical modulators operable to communicate with said beam divider and operable to receive a respective plurality of signals corresponding to a plurality of significant bits of resolution. Optionally, the apparatus also includes a source operable to output a digital waveform with the plurality of signals corresponding to the plurality of significant bits of resolution of the digital waveform, the plurality of signals operable to drive the plurality of optical modulators.