Optically controlled microwave phase shifter using Mach-Zehnder interferometer geometry

Abstract

A new type of optically controlled microwave phase shifter is proposed here. The phase shifter employs the Mach-Zehnder interferometer in a microstrip form on a semiconducting: substrate. One of the arms of the interferometer hus an optically excited gap. The gap is modeled hv a variable series impedance. A general analysis of the phase shifter is presented. Results show that the phase shifter can be realized at microwave frequencies on silicon substrate. and phase shifts from 0 to 90 degrees can be obtained with optical power less than 100 mW. (C) 2001 , Inc.