Continuously tunable orthogonally polarized RF optical single sideband generator based on micro-ring resonators

TLDR

The study demonstrates a continuously RF‑tunable orthogonally polarized optical single‑sideband generator based on dual cascaded micro‑ring resonators. The device splits the input double‑sideband signal into an orthogonally polarized carrier and lower sideband using TE‑ and TM‑polarized micro‑ring resonators, producing the OP‑OSSB output. It achieves a carrier‑to‑sideband ratio tuning range of up to 57.3 dB and an RF frequency tuning span of 21.4 GHz, offering a competitive, wideband solution for photonic RF transmission and processing in radar and communication systems.

Abstract

We demonstrate a continuously RF tunable orthogonally polarized optical single sideband (OP-OSSB) generator based on dual cascaded micro-ring resonators. By splitting the input double sideband signal into an orthogonally polarized carrier and lower sideband via TE- and TM-polarized MRRs, an OP-OSSB signal is generated. A large tuning range of the optical carrier to sideband ratio of up to 57.3 dB is achieved by adjusting the polarization angle of the input light. The operation RF frequency of the OP-OSSB generator can be continuously tuned with a 21.4 GHz range via independent thermal control of the two MRRs. Our device represents a competitive approach towards OP-OSSB generation with wideband tunable RF operation, and is promising for photonic RF signal transmission and processing in radar and communication systems.