Near Monolithic Integration of Optoelectronic Circuits for Control of MM-Wave Phased Array Antennas

Fiber optic distribution of mm-waves is important in phased array antennas, in particular in airborne or mobile phased array antennas because of low weight and compactness. Fiber optic distribution may also be very attractive in future cellular communication systems where frequency bands around 35 GHz and 60 GHz are considered. The low loss of optical fiber is very important in these systems, since signals needs to be transmitted over relative long distances. Compact optical transmitters and receivers covering the 20-60 GHz frequency range are required, but not currently commercially available. In this phase I project, we propose to demonstrate an optical receiver operating up to 45 GHz, and design receivers working up to 60 GHz. The designed receiver module will be analyzed for noise and dynamic range and a fiber optic package will be developed. A compact and simple module will be designed to make a reliable component for mobile systems. A prototype module will be fabricated during this phase I, the module will be tested and measurements will be compared to theoretical results.