RF frequency synthesis based on offset optical frequency combs in ring resonators

Abstract

The invention is entitled RF frequency synthesis based on offset optical frequency combs in ring resonators. The invention discloses an optical frequency comb generator device. In one implementation,the optical frequency comb generator device comprises a bus waveguide, at least a first optical ring resonator optically coupled to the bus waveguide, and at least a first grating located on the firstoptical ring resonator opposite from the bus waveguide. The first optical ring resonator and the first grating are configured to generate counter-propagating optical frequency combs that are offset from each other at a controllable bandwidth.

Description

Background technique [0001] Devices capable of generating stable low noise radio frequency (RF) signals in the MHz to GHz range are highly sought after for a large number of communication applications. Currently, optical frequency combs offer one of the most efficient ways to generate ultra-low-noise RF signals. In order for an optical frequency comb to work, the comb needs to be cross-octave to down-convert from a higher optical frequency to a lower optical frequency. For example, it is the state of the art to use an optical frequency comb spanning an entire octave to generate RF signals. However, this process is less efficient because most of the signal is unused and thus requires a high power optical pump. Contents of the invention [0002] The invention discloses an optical frequency comb generator device. In one implementation, an optical frequency comb generator device includes a bus waveguide, at least a first optical ring resonator optically coupled to the bus wav...

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Problems solved by technology

However, the process is less efficient because most of the signal is unused and thus requires high power optical pumping

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