Wide-band photonically phased array antenna using vector sum phase shifting approach

In this paper, a wide-band photonically phased array antenna is demonstrated. The array configuration consists of a 4 × 1 Vivaldi single-polarization antenna array and an independent photonic phasing system for each element. The phasing network of this array is implemented using two novel photonic phase shifters based on the vector summation approach. A vector sum phase shifter (VSPS), which exhibits a frequency-linear characteristic from dc to 15 GHz and can be continuously tuned from 0 to 100°, is presented. A second-order VSPS (SO-VSPS), a modification of the VSPS that is capable of 0-430° phasing range, is also demonstrated. This paper presents the operation and characterization of each component of the array, including the radiating elements and the various photonic phase shifters and, finally, a demonstration of the combined system. A discussion on the practicality of this system for airborne applications is presented, along with suggestions for simplification and improvement.