Design Performance Verification I.
Abstract
DPV I program covered the system aspects of developing and testing a brassboard 1-GPBS laser communications subsystem consisting of four components: a Nd:YAG laser, an optical modulator, an optical receiver, and transceiver electronics. The subsystem employed the technique of quadriphase-shift-keying (QPSK) a microwave subcarrier which, in turn, polarization-modulated a CW single-frequency green laser beam. During an integration period, difficulties were encountered with some of the components, necessitating a number of revisions and tests of alternates. Several phototubes, two optical modulators, and argon and Nd:YAG lasers were used in various combinations. It was eventually established that only one phototube had the desired characteristics. It was also found that the LiTaO3 modulator did not produce a sufficiently homogeneous modulation over the beam cross section to achieve the large depth of modulation desired. Consequently, most data were taken with the beam apertured with only the central portion received.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0914624
Entities
People
- Don G. Peterson
- Robert B. Ward
Organizations
- Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space