Design and analysis of RF signal distribution over optical fiber for active aperture radar

Multi function radar with fully active aperture phased array antenna uses large number of coaxial and signal cables for distribution of radar waveforms. Coaxial and data cables are spread over entire antenna structure to control amplitude and phase of transmit and receive beams. Feasibility of adapting microwave photonics to distribute microwave signals has been explored in this work with the help of simulation to reduce hardware complexity with advantages of fiber media such as higher data rate, bandwidth, dynamic range etc. Attenuation and phase delay characteristics of microwave radar signals when implemented using optical media has been analysed. Simulation results of proposed optical distribution system confirm hardware feasibility of required specifications.