Optically controlled millimeter wave antenna

Abstract

We have developed an opticallycontrolled, millimeter wave (MMW) scanning antenna. A computer controlled light source photo-injects a spatially varying plasma into a photo-conducting wafer. The light-modified wafer forms MMW beams from 20 to 100 GHz and scans them +30° in two-dimensions. Beam scan rates are greater than 1000 beams per second with excellent beam control in software. Scanning antennas based on this approach promise to be fast, inexpensive, and easily controlled.

A Low Profile Frequency Reconfigurable Antenna for mmWave Applications

“…The reconfigurability in its most types isachieved through an inner mechanism that is implemented inside the antenna structure. Several active elements are used such as PIN switches [18,19], MEMS [20], optical switches [21], varactors [22], FET transistors [23], etc. It stimulates the intentional redistribution of the RF currents over the antenna structure and generates reversible alterations of its properties, therefore, strong antenna performance can be achieved for changing applications and operational frequency.…”

Terahertz single pixel imaging with an optically controlled dynamic spatial light modulator

“…Additionally, all-electronic dynamic metamaterials have demonstrated switching speeds up to 10 MHz [19]. Another avenue to achieving a THz SLM has been inspired by the work initially developed at millimeter wavelengths where optically excited electron plasmas in photo-active semiconductors serve as a spatial mask in creating Fresnel lenses and reflect-arrays for beam-steering and communication based applications [20,21]. Early studies indicate that THz spatial modulation is also possible with sufficient optical power [22][23][24].…”