HETERODYNE RECEPTION OF MILLIMETER-WAVE-MODULATED OPTICAL SIGNALS WITH AN IN P-BASED TRANSISTOR

High-frequency transistors are known for their ability to efficiently perform signal processing functions that reach beyond mere amplificati on. Among such functions are oscillation, signal mixing, frequency mul tiplication, and optical signal detection. The current investigation f ocuses specifically on these four functions as they pertain to retriev ing signal information impressed on optical carriers of 1.3-mu m wavel ength. The main demonstration object is a 40-GHz hybrid-integrated het erodyne receiver circuit that employs an InP-based HEMT in a four-func tion role to simultaneously provide carrier demodulation, self-generat ion of a local oscillation signal, internal frequency doubling thereof , and signal downconversion to a lower intermediate frequency band.