Architecture and modeling of a novel optical beamforming network suitable for microwave photonics implementation

A novel architecture for optical beamforming is presented, and its implementation as an integrated multi-chip system is discussed. Modeling and design methodology of the key components of the system, i.e. the linearized electro-optic external modulator and the array of tunable true delay lines, is detailed. Measurements on a linearized modulator are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed design approach.