Optical crossbar switch for signal routing on board communication satellites
Abstract
A switch matrix operating on baseband or microwave signals is a critical element of communications satellites employing multiple beam antennas and on-board switching. Optical switching by spatial light modulators (SLM's) offers a means of implementing large and highly flexible switch arrays capable of routing signals at baseband or microwave frequencies. This approach offers potential mass, power, and size advantages compared to alternative technologies. The paper reviews the essential features of optical crossbar switch architectures based on SLM's and discusses options for the lasers, SLM's, interface optics, and photodetectors. Proof-of-concept demonstrators for optical crossbar switches operating on both baseband and microwave signals are described. Finally, an outline design for a compact switch module is described and the critical component developments needed to realize this are identified.
- Publication:
-
International Journal of Satellite Communications
- Pub Date:
- March 1994
- Bibcode:
- 1994IJSC...12Q.135B
- Keywords:
-
- Communication Satellites;
- Laser Applications;
- Light Modulation;
- Matrices (Circuits);
- Microwave Frequencies;
- Multibeam Antennas;
- Optical Switching;
- Signal Processing;
- Switching Circuits;
- Microwaves;
- Photometers;
- Spacecraft Design, Testing and Performance