Novel concept for a tunable optical microwave source

We have developed an amplifying mirror DFB for high speed tunable microwave generation. We experimentally demonstrated a continuous tuning range of 13 GHz without degradation of the microwave. A single device can therefore be applied to cover the frequency range from the base frequency of a TDM-channel to the frequency resulting from overhead due to forward error correction. Moreover, this tuning range eases the demands on precise cavity lengths and other critical design parameters. By shortening the external cavity length the device has at least a speed potential of 160 GHz. In conclusion, due to the high performance, the speed potential and the straightforward fabrication we expect the amplifying mirror DFB to be a promising device for application in future optical networks.