Performance Optimization of Optically Controlled Phased Array Antenna T/R Modules

The desirability of fiberoptic feed networks for the new generation of phased array antennas has been established. Fiberoptic feeds for T/R modules have been demonstrated up to the millimeter wave range. This has led to an increased interest in the performance optimization of the feed network. This paper reports on the analytical investigation of possible approaches to the suppression of the amplitude and phase fluctuations of the carrier signal in fiberoptic distribution networks for phased array antennas. The system configuration providing optimum noise performance is presented.