Application of slow light: Controllable microwave phase shifting using semiconductor optical amplifiers

In this talk we show how slow and fast light effects arising from the nonlinear gain and refractive index dynamics within semiconductor optical amplifiers can be used to control the phase shift of microwave frequency signals. Theoretical predictions with experimental conformation will be shown as to how continuous phase shifting can be achieved and pay particular attention to the noise issue that arises in such phase shifters. Finally, applications of such phase shifters, including realizations of tunable microwave notch filters and tunable optoelectronic oscillators will be presented.