A heterodyne receiver for 40-GHz-modulated 1.3- mu m optical signals using a multi-tasked InP-based HEMT

Heterodyne reception of a millimeter-wave modulated 1.3- mu m optical carrier signal is achieved with an InP-based HEMT (high-electron-mobility transistor) that performs four simultaneous functions all in one. The functions are carrier demodulation, generation of a local oscillation signal, frequency multiplication thereof, and transistor-internal downconversion of the modulation signal to a lower intermediate frequency band. The measured performance characteristics of the heterodyne receiver are reported together with results derived from a systematic study of optical detection and mixing properties of a HEMT by itself, observed as functions of modulation signal frequencies up through 40 GHz and bias conditions.<>