Reference-comb generation technique for multichannel down-conversion

Todd R. Bader

doi:10.1117/12.138371

2 December 1992 Reference-comb generation technique for multichannel down-conversion

Todd R. Bader

Proceedings Volume 1703, Optical Technology for Microwave Applications VI and Optoelectronic Signal Processing for Phased-Array Antennas III; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138371
Event: Aerospace Sensing, 1992, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

Various forms of coherent optical signal processors require an input reference signal that is composed of a comb of frequencies equally spaced over a wide operating bandwidth. The principle function of this waveform is to provide an array of local oscillators to simultaneously downconvert an array of contiguous subbands over a wide bandwidth to a common IF or baseband. An additional requirement of this reference signal for optical processors is that the power be uniformly distributed in time to maximize dynamic range. A periodic chirp is an example of an efficient reference waveform. This paper presents an analog RF feedback technique that requires only two CW inputs to generate a uniform comb of reference frequencies such that the time waveform is a periodic chirp. An analysis is presented that defines the relationship between the generator design and output signal parameters, and discusses factors that impact signal quality and stability. A simulation is used to illustrate the behavior of the generator. An acousto-optic implementation is also discussed, and an example of an architecture that incorporates the signal generator within a coherent optical Fourier analyzer is described. The results of an experimental demonstration of a feedback chirp generator are reported.

Citation Download Citation

Todd R. Bader "Reference-comb generation technique for multichannel down-conversion", Proc. SPIE 1703, Optical Technology for Microwave Applications VI and Optoelectronic Signal Processing for Phased-Array Antennas III, (2 December 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138371

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