Heterodyne RF/Optical Links Utilizing Integrated Photonics
The integration scheme is based on use of asymmetric twin optical waveguides.
A program of research and development has been directed toward the goals of demonstrating (1) ultra-low-noise communication links in which information is conveyed by phase-modulated radio-frequency (RF) carrier signals that are, in turn, used to modulate laser-generated optical carrier signals and (2) implementation of transmitters and receivers in such links by means of several key integrated optoelectronic and photonic components. Notably, the scheme for integrating these components is based on the use of asymmetric twin optical waveguides (see figure) that afford design versatility in that they enable the use of a broad range of components useful in RF/photonic applications.
The achievements of the program include the following:
- The integration scheme was demonstrated by designing, constructing, and testing several archetypical asymmetric - twin - waveguide - based photonic integrated devices and associated electronic circuits, including not only waveguides but also laser/waveguide and photodetector/ waveguide units.
- A fully integrated heterodyne receiver capable of receiving a 1.55-μmwavelength carrier signal modulated by an RF signal of 5 GHz was designed, constructed, and tested. A wide - band - rectifier/narrow - bandreceiver design was chosen to provide cancellation of phase noise. Advantages of using an integrated balanced photodiode pair and external modulation to reduce relative-intensity noise and link nonlinearity were experimentally demonstrated.
- The use of a tunable 1.55-μm-wavelength laser as a local oscillator integrated in an asymmetric-twin-waveguide- based unit was demonstrated.
- The highest-bandwidth heterodyne RF/optical links operating at 5 GHz and 16 GHz were demonstrated. These links were based on phase modulation and represent an extremely-high-sensitivity route to optical transmission of analog signals.
This work was done by Stephen R. Forrest of Princeton University for the Army Research Laboratory. For further information, download the free white paper at www.defensetechbriefs.com under the Photonics category. ARL-0005
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Heterodyne RF/Optical Links Utilizing Integrated Photonics
(reference ARL-0005) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
Don't have an account? Sign up here.
Top Stories
INSIDERManned Systems
Turkey's KAAN Combat Aircraft Completes First Flight - Mobility Engineering...
INSIDERMaterials
FAA Expands Boeing 737 Investigation to Manufacturing and Production Lines -...
INSIDERImaging
New Video Card Enables Supersonic Vision System for NASA's X-59 Demonstrator -...
INSIDERManned Systems
Stratolaunch Approaches Hypersonic Speed in First Powered TA-1 Test Flight -...
INSIDERUnmanned Systems
Army Ends Future Attack and Reconnaissance Helicopter Development Program -...
ArticlesEnergy
Can Solid-State Batteries Commercialize by 2030? - Mobility Engineering...
Webcasts
AR/AI
From Data to Decision: How AI Enhances Warfighter Readiness
Energy
April Battery & Electrification Summit
Manufacturing & Prototyping
Tech Update: 3D Printing for Transportation in 2024
Test & Measurement
Building an Automotive EMC Test Plan
Manufacturing & Prototyping
The Moon and Beyond from a Thermal Perspective
Software
Mastering Software Complexity in Automotive: Is Release Possible...