Phased array antenna beamforming using optical processor

The feasibility of optical processor based beamforming for microwave array antennas is investigated. The primary focus is on systems utilizing the 20/30 GHz communications band and a transmit configuration exclusively to serve this band. A mathematical model is developed for computation of candidate design configurations. The model is capable of determination of the necessary design parameters required for spatial aspects of the microwave 'footprint' (beam) formation. Computed example beams transmitted from geosynchronous orbit are presented to demonstrate network capabilities. The effect of the processor on the output microwave signal to noise quality at the antenna interface is also considered

Antenna beamforming using optical processing

This work concerns itself with the analytical investigation into the feasibility of optical processor based beamforming for microwave array antennas. The primary focus is on systems utilizing the 20 and 30 GHz communications band and a transmit configuration exclusively to serve this band. A mathematical model is developed for computation of candidate design configurations. The model is capable of determination of the necessary design parameters required for both spatial aspects of the microwave footprint (beam) formation as well as transmitted signal quality. Computed example beams transmitted from geosynchronous orbit are presented to demonstrate network capabilities. A comprehensive device/component survey is also conducted in parallel to determine the feasibility of breadboarding a transmit processor. Recommendations are made for the configuration of such a processor and the components which would comprise such a network