AlGaAs laser diode FM spectrum: Phased array antenna application
Abstract
Preliminary results are presented on the use of an AlGaAs laser diode to generate microwave signals suitable for application with phased array antennas. The relative intensity noise (RIN) was measured under various operating conditions to give an indication of the frequency response limitation of the laser diode. The frequency response to intensity modulation was also measured directly at microwave frequencies. Finally, the FM spectrum was observed using a heterodyne technique and compared with an empirical model. The spectrum of intensity fluctuations shows a peak near the relaxation oscillation frequency. This is a good indication of the cutoff frequency for direct current modulation of the laser diode. The behavior of the modulated laser diode is well characterized by the simultaneous intensity and frequency modulation taking into account a phase difference between the two.
- Publication:
-
Electrical and Computer Engineering, Volumes 1 and 2
- Pub Date:
- 1991
- Bibcode:
- 1991ecev.confT....C
- Keywords:
-
- Gallium Arsenide Lasers;
- Microwave Antennas;
- Phased Arrays;
- Frequency Modulation;
- Microwave Spectra;
- Performance Tests;
- Communications and Radar