Compact Radio Frequency-to-Optical Transmitter for Airborne Military Environments

In this SBIR effort we will develop an ultra-compact, high-speed, low RIN and high-power transmitter for high-performance RF photonic link applications based on our cutting-edge lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) modulator. In phase I, we will design, fabricate and characterize a low Vp, push-and-pull LNOI modulator. We will study the optical couplings at the laser/modulator/fiber interfaces to achieve low-insertion loss integration. We will down-select and acquire a laser chip and develop a bench top setup to demonstrate high output power and low RIN. Using the developed laser, LNOI modulator and our high-power, broadband MUTC PD, we will conduct a proof-of-concept demonstration of the targeted IMDD link to meet the required link performance. We will also design and develop a transmitter prototype package to meet the transmitter size requirement. In phase II, we will continue to optimize the LNOI modulator performance in term of propagation and coupling losses. We will improve the laser RIN and linewidth by using an external cavity chip and an integrated isolator unit. A hermetic transmitter package will be developed and demonstrated in a high-performance RF photonic link system. We will also perform environmental studies for the developed transmitter package according to the related military standards.