Modeling amplified arbitrary filtered microwave photonic links and systems

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Microwave Engineering
• Optical Communications

Background:

• Increasing complexity in microwave photonic (MWP) systems leads to higher signal losses.
• Optical amplification is becoming essential for maintaining signal integrity in advanced MWP links.
• Existing models may not fully address the performance of amplified, filtered MWP systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an analytical model for amplified arbitrary filtered MWP systems.
• To provide expressions for key performance metrics in intensity modulation direct detection MWP systems.
• To assess the model's applicability to different amplification scenarios (power, intermediate, pre-amplification).

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel analytical model for amplified MWP systems.
• Derivation of figures of merit for intensity modulation direct detection.
• Application of the model to a long MWP link simulation.
• Evaluation of the model using a reconfigurable MWP filter on a photonic integrated circuit.

Main Results:

• The analytical model successfully provides expressions for main figures of merit in amplified MWP systems.
• The model accounts for various amplification stages, including power, intermediate, and pre-amplification.
• Application to a long MWP link and a reconfigurable filter demonstrates the model's validity and utility.

Conclusions:

• The developed analytical model is effective for characterizing amplified arbitrary filtered MWP systems.
• The model aids in the design and optimization of complex MWP links and integrated photonic devices.
• This work contributes to the advancement of high-performance microwave photonic technologies.