A comparator (11) outputs, out of an electrical signal input from a trans impedance amplifier (TIA) via a coupling capacitor, pulses having amplitudes equal to or larger than a reference value as a comparison output signal (Cout). An analog holding circuit (12) charges a holding capacitor with each pulse contained in the comparison output signal (Cout) and also removes a DC voltage obtained by the charging via a discharging resistor, thereby generating a holding output signal (Hout) that changes in accordance with the presence/absence of input of an optical signal. This allows to perform an autonomous operation without any necessity of an external control signal and properly detect the presence/absence of input of an optical signal.