Optically interconnected phased arraysPhased-array antennas are required for many future NASA missions. They will provide agile electronic beam forming for communications and tracking in the range of 1 to 100 GHz. Such phased arrays are expected to use several hundred GaAs monolithic integrated circuits (MMICs) as transmitting and receiving elements. However, the interconnections of these elements by conventional coaxial cables and waveguides add weight, reduce flexibility, and increase electrical interference. Alternative interconnections based on optical fibers, optical processing, and holography are under evaluation as possible solutions. In this paper, the current status of these techniques is described. Since high-frequency optical components such as photodetectors, lasers, and modulators are key elements in these interconnections, their performance and limitations are discussed.
Document ID
19890046325
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Bhasin, Kul B. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Kunath, Richard R. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1988
Subject Category
Electronics And Electrical Engineering
Meeting Information
Meeting: Interconnection of High Speed and High Frequency Devices and Systems