Optoelectronics for radio frequency conversion

Frequency conversion is pervasive in the majority of radio transmitters or receivers. In receiver design, frequency conversion exploits heterodyne detection providing higher dynamic range, greater signal to noise ratios, and allows relaxed signal processing requirements. Optoelectronic frequency conversion using cascaded Mach-Zehnder modulators offers added advantages over traditional diode microwave mixers including exceptional RF/LO isolation, true wide band operation (DC to 40 GHz for RF, LO and IF), immunity to electromagnetic interference, and the ability to remote the RF or LO signals great distances with low loss. Here we discuss the performance of broad band optoelectronic frequency converters using cascaded Mach-Zehnder modulators.