title: Improved configuration and reduction of phase noise in a narrow linewidth ultrawideband optical RF source.
abstract: In this Letter, we report on the improved configuration of a widely tunable optical RF generation system, particularly for the generation of low-frequency RF, as well as the reduction of phase noise in that same system. Using an amplitude modulator, a simplified system design was demonstrated with fewer components and improved phase noise performance, especially at RF frequencies below ∼36 GHz. Excess phase noise due to acoustic vibrations of the optical fibers was also successfully eliminated by mechanical isolation. A minimum phase noise of -124 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset was demonstrated at 4 GHz.
authors.forename: David W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Grund
authors.forename: Shouyuan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Shi
authors.forename: Garrett J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Schneider
authors.forename: Janusz
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Murakowski
authors.forename: Dennis W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Prather