Cost-effective equalization of electro-optic frequency combs in a Sagnac interferometer.

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• Applied Physics

Background:

• Electro-optic frequency combs are crucial for precise measurements.
• Existing methods often involve complex setups and high costs.
• Need for simplified and cost-effective frequency comb generation and equalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, cost-effective method for electro-optic frequency comb generation and equalization.
• To demonstrate a simplified system utilizing a Sagnac interferometer.
• To achieve flat-top frequency combs with high flatness.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a single phase modulator within a Sagnac interferometer.
• Employing interference of clockwise and counter-clockwise comb lines for equalization.
• Operating in the hundreds of MHz frequency range.

Main Results:

• Successful generation of flat-top electro-optic frequency combs.
• Achieved flatness comparable to existing literature methods.
• Demonstrated a simplified synthesis and reduced system complexity.

Conclusions:

• The proposed Sagnac interferometer-based method offers a cost-effective and simplified approach to frequency comb generation and equalization.
• The system's performance is suitable for sensing and spectroscopy.
• This technique presents a viable alternative for applications requiring precise optical frequency generation.