Abstract

Recent advances in wideband components for use in optical fiber systems have been very impressive. Laser diodes have shown 3dB modulation bandwidths near 20 GHz at room temperature,^1,2 and external modulators with similar high-frequency performance have been reported.³ Bandwidths as high as 100 GHz have been achieved in semiconductor photodiodes.⁴ Performance of these components at such high frequencies opens a new realm of possibilities for the use of optics in military systems. These include not only signal transmission over optical fibers, but also signal generation, signal processing, and optical control of microwave devices. Coverage spanning the 0 – 18 GHz range, where most radar and electronic warfare (EW) systems operate, is now possible. Some of these techniques can also be applied in the millimeter wave frequency range (> 30 GHz), which is receiving increased emphasis for military applications.

© 1987 Optical Society of America