Photonically-driven Schottky diode based 0.3 THz heterodyne receiver

Abstract

Photonics-based technologies are key players in a number of emerging applications in the terahertz (THz) field. These solutions exploit the well-known advantages of optical devices, such as ultra-wide tuneability and direct integration with fiber networks. However, THz receivers are mainly implemented by fully electronic solutions, where Schottky barrier diodes (SBD) are the preferred option as detectors and mixers due to their excellent response within the THz range at room temperature, and technological maturity. Here, we demonstrate an SBD-based subharmonic mixer (SHM) at 300 GHz pumped with a photonic local oscillator. The Schottky mixer is a prototype designed and manufactured by ACST GmbH, operating at 270-320 GHz. The local oscillator is generated by photomixing on a high-frequency and high-power uni-travelling-carrier photodiode (UTC-PD), providing enough power to saturate conversion loss. Minimum single-side-band conversion loss of 14.4 dB and a peak dynamic range of 130 dB have been measured. Finally, as a proof of concept we realize an all-photonics-based 5 Gbps wireless bridge, utilizing the optically-pumped SBD mixer. With this work, we prove the feasibility of high-performance hybrid Schottky-photonic THz receivers, incorporating the best of both worlds.