Precise RF Phase Measurement by Optical Sideband Generation Using Mach-Zehnder Modulators

A novel radio frequency (RF) phase measurement method that uses optical modulation was proposed. The mathematical model of Mach-Zehnder modulator (MZM) characterization was reviewed. By measuring the output sideband power of the optical modulator, the phase difference of the electric signals fed to the modulator was experimentally measured, and picosecond-level accuracies were achieved. This technique is expected to be useful for radio-over-fiber-based antenna array systems.

Automated summary

A novel RF phase measurement method using optical modulation was proposed, achieving picosecond-level accuracies by measuring the output sideband power of the optical modulator. This technique is expected to be useful for radio-over-fiber-based antenna array systems.