Optical Control Considerations For Phased Array Antennas

N. V. Jespersen; A. C. Heath; E. S. Roller

doi:10.1117/12.940037

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3 June 1987 Optical Control Considerations For Phased Array Antennas

N. V. Jespersen, A. C. Heath, E. S. Roller

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Proceedings Volume 0756, Optical Technologies for Space Communication Systems; (1987) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.940037
Event: OE LASE'87 and EO Imaging Symposium, 1987, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

The advantages for the use of fiber optic components in communication electronics have led to their increased use in control and signal distribution applications. Recent theoretical and experimental work has surfaced some interesting possibilities for fiber-compatible aperture adjustment and signal feeding for phased array antennas. This paper presents the results of experimental investigations into direct microwave phase shift by optical excitation. The subject phase control method applies novel, light-sensitive PIN diodes in a microstrip phase shifter circuit sized for X-band operation. This phase shifter is made part of a two-element phased array breadboard to show the viability of this approach to array beamforming. Other areas presented include signal distribution methods suitable for large apertures consisting of many (e.g. thousands) radiating elements. Trade-off issues relevant to this subject area are highlighted.

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N. V. Jespersen, A. C. Heath, and E. S. Roller "Optical Control Considerations For Phased Array Antennas", Proc. SPIE 0756, Optical Technologies for Space Communication Systems, (3 June 1987); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.940037

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