Opto-microwave technique in the promising active phased antenna arrays

Abstract

Implementation of multi-element active phased antenna arrays (APAA) due to poor mass-overall dimensions characteristics, signals distribution system complexity is rather difficult. Extra difficulties arise with wide-band signals and millimeter waves APAA. The signal distribution fiber-optical systems using elements of laser technique and other elements of opto-electronics allow in many cases to solve completely the problem of the signals distribution system and pilot and monitor signals in APAA at a qualitatively new level. New methods of supershort microwave pulses generation, fast switches through laser radiation action on photo-semiconductors are also promising. Phase shifters based on opto-microwave systems can be made frequency-independent.