Ruggedized, Ultra-Compact, High Dynamic Range, Dual-Output Wideband Electro-Optic Modulator Navy SBIR FY2014.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2014.2 Topic No.: N142-100 Topic Title: Ruggedized, Ultra-Compact, High Dynamic Range, Dual-Output Wideband Electro-Optic Modulator Proposal No.: N142-100-0381 Firm: Phase Sensitive Innovations 51 East Main Street Suite 201 Newark, Delaware 19711 Contact: Thomas Dillon Phone: (302) 456-9003 Abstract: In this SBIR effort we will develop and analyze (Phase I) a new design and packaging approach for an ultra-compact, dual-output wideband Mach-Zehnder modulator (MZM) for low noise figure (NF) and high dynamic range radio-frequency (RF) photonic link applications. We will provide (Phase I) experimental proof-of-concept of the proposed device by tailoring our current 100GHz MZM product. In Phase II, we will optimize the modulator and package design based on Phase I experimental results, and fabricate, package and characterize the modulator prototype to meet the design specifications. Special attention will be given to testing the hermetically sealed modulator package under extreme environment following guidelines of DOD test standards. The demand of such a compact dual-output electro-optical (EO) modulator arose from the recent progress in various RF photonic link systems using balanced detection scheme to achieve short noise limited NF performance and modulation OIP3 limited spurious free dynamic range (SFDR). PSI has a unique background to perform this work based on over 10 years' experiences in developing high-speed (up to 300GHz) lithium niobate (LN) modulators and recent success in packaging high-power MUTC PDs that have been employed to realize positive link gain up to 30GHz. Benefits: Paired with a balanced PD receiver, the dual-output MZM can be used in many RF photonic link systems that require superior NF and SFDR performance. Such systems means a great deal for many airborne communication systems by replacing the heavy, lossy and space-consuming coaxial cables with light, almost lossless and small volume fiber links. In addition, a dual-output MZM/balanced PD receiver pair is capable of detecting not only the signal amplitude, but also the phase information. As a result, such detecting scheme is compatible with complex modulation formats such as DPSK and DQPSK. For example, balanced PD receivers have been investigated and applied for radio-on-fiber broadband wireless communications, which is propelled by the huge increase of data volume in recent years. According to Edholm's law, the demand for point-to-point bandwidth in wireless short-range communications has doubled every 18 months over the last 25 years. It can be predicted that data rates of around 5-10 Gb/s will be required in ten years. Tremendous market demands are expected by then. A list of potential applications of the dual-output MZM/balanced PD receiver includes: a) RF photonic links for airborne communications and electronic warfare systems b) Millimeter wave wireless telecommunications c) Long haul antenna remoting d) Phased array antennas More specifically, transition of the developed dual-output mdoulator package design and process will be performed through the cooperation between PSI and our industrial partners, where the modulator prototype will be evaluated in term of performance and SWaP-C. PSI will seek and identify applications of broadband, high-power dual-output MZM in broadband phase array antennas and microwave photonic link systems as a platform for multifunctional radar and communication systems, where hundreds or thousands of modulators are required in a single system. To this end, packaged modulator module with small size, light weight, low cost and easy-to-deploy interface not only represents an impressive leap forward in our technical capabilities but also a tremendous business opportunity. Return