Optoelectronic Control Of Phased-Array Antenna

Radiation patterns switched within microseconds. According to concept, digital beam-steering information destined for number of phased antenna elements transmitted in serial multiplex along optical fiber to optoelectronic integrated circuit (OEIC), demultiplexing information into parallel electronic channels to phase shifters associated with various elements. Because of small distances between elements of such arrays, compactness of optical fibers makes them attractive for distribution of beam-steering (phase-shifting) control signals. Also offers advantages of light weight, low attenuation, mechanical flexibility, large bandwidth, and immunity to both crosstalk and electromagnetic interference.