Opto-VLSI-based variable RF power splitter

A novel broadband variable RF (Radio Frequency) power splitter structure based on the use of an Opto-VLSI processor for optical beam multicasting is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The broadband RF variable power splitter structure employs an Opto-VLSI processor in conjunction with an optical fiber array, a photodetector array, and a 4-f imaging lens system to split a broadband RF signal into multiple output RF ports with a user-defined splitting ratio. A proof-of-concept 1×4 broadband variable RF power splitter structure, driven by optimized multicasting phase holograms uploaded onto the Opto-VLSI processor, is developed, demonstrating an arbitrary RF power splitting ratio over a wide frequency range.