Photonic Filter-Free Scheme for D-Band mm-Wave Signal Generation with Frequency 12-Tupling Only via One Integrated In-Phase and Quadrature Modulator

Abstract

In this work, we have proposed a new scheme of generating continuously tunable and filter-less D-band millimeter-wave (mm-wave) signal with frequency 12-tupling only via one integrated in-phase and quadrature (I/Q) modulator. The two sub-MZMs in the I/Q modulator, biased at peak point, are applied to eliminate odd order optical tones. By controlling the phase and amplitude of RF driving signals, I/Q modulator bias point, and the optical phase shifter embed in the lower arm of I/Q modulator, a frequency 12-tupling signal can be obtained through the beat frequency in the photodetector. Employing 10 GHz RF drive signal, 120 GHz millimeter wave signal can be realized by detailed mathematical formula derivation and simulation, and optical sideband suppression ratio (OSSR) can reach 37.65 dB and radio frequency sideband suppression ratio (RFSSR) can reach 32.08 dB.