Synthesis of Millimeter-Wave Power Spectra Using Time-Multiplexed Optical Pulse Shaping

Millimeter-wave (MMW) electrical power spectra are flexibly synthesized by integrating fast wavelength switching, optical frequency comb generation, spectral line-by-line pulse shaping, and optical-to-electrical conversion. Control over generated RF power spectra is exercised through the choice both of the optical parent waveforms and of the wavelength switching patterns. Discrete or comb-like MMW power spectra are generated using periodic wavelength switching, while nearly continuous MMW spectra can be obtained when wavelengths are switched according to a pseudorandom bit stream.