High-Accuracy, High-Dynamic-Range Phase-Measurement System

A digital phase meter has been designed to satisfy stringent requirements for measuring differences between phases of radio-frequency (RF) subcarrier signals modulated onto laser beams involved in the operation of a planned space-borne gravitational-wave-detecting heterodyne laser interferometer. The capabilities of this system could also be used in diverse terrestrial applications that involve measurement of signal phases, including metrology, navigation, and communications.