TABLE OF CONTENTS Fiber optic (FO) communication links [1] are best suited for transferring data with maximum security, minimum insertion loss and without any RF interference (RFI). An optical link typically involves a LED transmitter, modulator, preamplifier and photo diode detector (Figure 6.1). The output of the LED transmitter is modulated by the intelligent information to be transmitted and is coupled to an optical fiber transmission line. Modulation of the source is accomplished by modulating the input current. The signal intelligence is recovered through conversion of the optical power, which is then amplified by a preamplifier. The overall insertion loss includes the fiber transmission loss, coupling loss and detector loss. The data transmission capability is dependent on the transmitter power output, receiver sensitivity and link margin to meet specific BER requirements. Data transmission over an optical link can be transmitted with minimum cost, without being susceptible to intentional and unintentional jamming.
Optical control provides the most cost-effective control of T/R modules in high power surveillance and missile defense tracking radars. Recent development of high speed analog FO links and key circuit technologies offer an effective optical control and interconnects of Microwave Monolithic Integrated Circuit (MMIC) in T/R modules deployed in missile defense tracking radars. Precision amplitude and phase control of RF signals in an electronically steerable...
