High-Speed Electro-Optic Analog-to-Digital Converter.
Abstract
The periodic dependence of the output of an electro-optic intensity modulator on applied voltage can be utilized to perform A/D conversion. The feasibility of the concept has been demonstrated by such a modulator in a threshold circuit to simulate one bit channel of an A/D converter. The optical approach offers several potential improvements over present technique: faster conversion rates, fewer comparators, lower electrical power dissipation, and the opportunity to record the output on photographic film. Further work in modulator fabrication, mode-locked injection laser development, laser-to-modulator coupling techniques, and threshold optical detection techniques will be needed before the full potential of this device can be realized. Application areas include digital signal processors for wideband radar and electronic warfare systems. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA067022
Entities
People
- H. F. Taylor
- M. J. Taylor