Abstract : In this paper, we introduce a novel model to analyze the linearity of a TW-EAM (traveling-wave electroabsorption modulator). The device length, microwave loss (ML), and internal reflection (IR) due to impedance mismatch have effect on the linearity of a TW-EAM. The longer devices have characteristics of lower biases with minimum IMDs (intermodulation distortions). ML decreases the output power as well as the IMD value. Internal reflection has different nonlinear characteristics according to the wavelength of the input frequency and the device length. There is little change in SFDR (spurious-free dynamic range) due to ML or IR. As a result, for a 50 GHz band RF-optical communication system, a 0.8 mm-long TW-EAM with the lowest ML would have better properties by using IR, which is caused by impedance,mismatch at the output port.