Theoretical analysis for fiber-optic distribution of RF signals based on phase-locked loop

We establish an analytical model for the stable dissemination of radio-frequency (RF) signals via fiber-optic links. Based on the phase-locked loop theory, the contributions from the photonic RF source, transmission-path, and additional system noise have been taken into account, leading to the quantitative analysis of the phase noise evolution in the transmission link. Furthermore, the theoretical analysis reveals the relation between the system instability and the frequency of the transmitted signal, which is further verified. Assisted with the proposed model, the optimization for stabilized dissemination of RF signals with a certain length of transmission link or any specified noise floors can be achieved with minimized timing jitter performance, testifying the potential high stability obtained thanks to the higher transmitted signal frequencies. This quantitative model, enabling precise prediction of the frequency instability and timing jitter from the residual phase noise, can be a useful guide in designing a fiber-optic distribution system and evaluating its fundamental limits.