Optical generation of microwave signal for FMCW radar applications
Abstract
An optically shifted oscillator has been designed in integrated technology and tested in order to use as a signal generator for frequency modulated continuous wave radar applications. Simulation and measurement results demonstrate a 200 MHz microwave frequency tuning range when the applied optical power varies from 0 to 100 mW at a wavelength of 800 nm. Illumination is applied on a photoconductive switch inserted within the circuit to achieve a quasi-linear oscillation frequency shift with a linear variation of optical power