Broad-band (⩾20 GHz) laser-diode-based optoelectronic microwave phase shifter

We demonstrate a new type of broad-band microwave phase shifter with superior performance at frequencies up to 20 GHz. This is implemented by simply adding an offset voltage prior to the loop filter (LF) in a laser-diode-based digital optoelectronic phase-locked loop (OEPLL). Accurate control of the phase of microwave signals with a continuously tunable range exceeding 640° (~3.6 π) is achieved. The phase fluctuation and long-term drift of any desired phase shift are as small as ±0.40° and 0.08°, respectively, at 20 GHz. The relative phase instability can be maintained within 0.09° while operating in a phase-shift-keying (PSK) scheme. We also demonstrate accurate control of relative phase difference between dual phase-locked microwave sources using the phase shifter. Our results indicate potential application of this broad-band optoelectronic phase shifter in a phased-array antenna system