All-optimized integrated RF photonic notch filter

We report a silicon nitride chip-based radio-frequency photonic notch filter with an unprecedented performance including an RF gain of 8 dB, a record-low noise figure of 15.6 dB, and a spurious-free dynamic range of 116 dB . Hz(2/3), with a stop band rejection of 50 dB. This level of performance is achieved by using on-chip resonators' unique phase responses, and thorough optimizations of the photonic link. These record results will potentially stimulate future implementations of integrated microwave photonic subsystems for real-world applications. (C) 2017 Optical Society of America