Experimental demonstration of an acousto-optic system for two-dimensional phased-array antenna scanning

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Acousto-optics
• Antenna technology

Background:

• Phased arrays require precise beam steering for applications like radar and communication.
• Traditional beam scanning methods can be complex and limited in speed and accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a novel in-line interferometric acousto-optic architecture for two-dimensional (2D) beam scanning.
• To achieve modulo-2pi phase control for planar phased arrays using independent control frequencies.

Main Methods:

• Experimental demonstration of a 330-MHz carrier system.
• Utilizing two independent control frequencies (f(1) and f(2)) with specific frequency variations for orthogonal phase control.
• Employing an interferometric acousto-optic approach for beam manipulation.

Main Results:

• Successful experimental demonstration of the 2D beam scanning architecture.
• Achieved modulo-2pi phase control along two orthogonal directions using frequency variations of 0-170 kHz and 0-210 kHz.
• Measured a processor output carrier signal-to-noise ratio of 48 dB at a 1-MHz offset within a 300 kHz analyzer bandwidth.
• Demonstrated a carrier tuning range of 90 MHz.

Conclusions:

• The novel in-line interferometric acousto-optic architecture is effective for 2D beam scanning in planar phased arrays.
• The system offers precise phase control and good signal-to-noise performance.
• This technology has potential for advanced radar and communication systems.