Flexible radio-frequency photonics: Optoelectronic frequency combs and integrated pulse shaping

Andrew J Metcalf, Purdue University

Abstract

Microwave photonics is a discipline which leverages optoelectronics to enhance the generation, transport, and processing of high-frequency electrical signals. At the heart of many emerging techniques is the optical frequency comb. A comb is a lightwave source whose spectrum is made up of discrete equally spaced spectral components that share a fixed phase relationship. These discrete coherent oscillators –known as comb lines– collectively form a Fourier basis that describe a periodic optical waveform. Within the last two decades frequency-stabilized broadband combs produced from mode-locked lasers have led to revolutionary advancements in precision optical frequency synthesis and metrology. Meanwhile, Fourier-transform optical pulse shaping, which provides a means to control a comb’s Fourier basis in both amplitude and phase, has emerged as an integral tool in optical communications, broadband waveform generation, and microwave photonic filtering. However, traditional comb and pulse shaping architectures are often plagued by complex and bulky setups, rendering robust and cost effective implementation outside of the laboratory a challenge. In addition, traditional comb sources based on short-pulse lasers do not possess qualities which are ideally suited for this new application regime. Motivated by the shortcomings in current architectures, and empowered by recent advancements in optoelectronic technology, this dissertation focuses on developing novel and robust schemes in optical frequency comb generation and line-by-line pulse shaping. Our results include: the invention and low-noise characterization of a broadband flat-top comb source; the realization of an optoelectronic-based time cloak; and finally, the development of an integrated pulse shaper, which we use in conjunction with our flat-top comb source to demonstrate a rapidly reconfigurable microwave photonic filter.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Weiner, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Electrical engineering|Optics

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