Optical phase-locked loop signal sources for phased-array communications antennas

Lloyd N. Langley; Colin Edge; Michael J. Wale; Ulrik B. Gliese; Alwyn J. Seeds; Channing Walton; James G. Wright; Louis A. Coryell

doi:10.1117/12.279461

23 October 1997 Optical phase-locked loop signal sources for phased-array communications antennas

Lloyd N. Langley, Colin Edge, Michael J. Wale, Ulrik B. Gliese, Alwyn J. Seeds, Channing Walton, James G. Wright, Louis A. Coryell

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 3160, Optical Technology for Microwave Applications VIII; (1997) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.279461
Event: Optical Science, Engineering and Instrumentation '97, 1997, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

A coherent, optical heterodyne approach to signal generation and beamforming is particularly advantageous in multi-beam mobile phased arrays. Use of optical technology allows an optimum distribution of weight and power to be achieved between the antenna face and central electronics, together with an efficient implementation of the beamforming function and a modular design approach in which the basic building blocks are frequency-independent. Systems of this type employ a pair of optical carriers with a difference frequency equal to the required microwave signal. Phased- locking is necessary in order to achieve sufficiently low phase noise in the radio communication link. Optical phase locked loops (OPLLs) have been shown to be potential candidates for this application, yet work still needs to be done to bring them from the laboratory to field demonstrations. This paper describes the construction of a laser-diode OPLL subsystem for evaluation in a proof-of- concept beamforming system. This involves optimization of the loop design, development of single-frequency laser diodes with the correct linewidth, modulation and tuning characteristics and integration into a micro-optic assembly with custom wideband electronics.

Citation Download Citation

Lloyd N. Langley, Colin Edge, Michael J. Wale, Ulrik B. Gliese, Alwyn J. Seeds, Channing Walton, James G. Wright, and Louis A. Coryell "Optical phase-locked loop signal sources for phased-array communications antennas", Proc. SPIE 3160, Optical Technology for Microwave Applications VIII, (23 October 1997); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.279461

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