Characterization of Noise Properties in Photodetectors: A Step toward Ultra-Low Phase Noise Microwaves

J. Taylor, F. Quinlan, and S. Diddams

Abstract:	Very-low-noise microwave signals are desirable for many state-of-the-art applications, including many types of radar and imaging systems. However, even state-of-the-art rf oscillator technology for producing signals into the tens of gigahertz range does not generate signals with low enough phase noise for these important systems to work to their full potential. A new approach for achieving microwave signals with ultra-low phase noise involves using an optical frequency divider that has as its reference a narrow-linewidth CW laser. Femtosecond laser frequency combs provide an effective and efficient way to take an ultra-stable optical frequency reference and divide the signal down into the microwave region. In order to convert optical pulses into a usable rf signal, one must use high-speed photodetection; unfortunately, excess phase noise from both technical and fundamental sources can arise in the photodetection process. In order to ultimately minimize the noise effects of the photodetector, we must first characterize some of the known sources for noise arising in these devices. In this paper, we will study two sources of excess noise in highspeed photodiodes—power-to-phase conversion and shot noise. The noise performance of each device will give us clues as to the nature of the sources, their effect on the output signal, and what design features of the photodiode minimize these noise effects.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 41st Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting November 16 - 19, 2009 Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico
Pages:	339 - 348
Cite this article:	Taylor, J., Quinlan, F., Diddams, S., "Characterization of Noise Properties in Photodetectors: A Step toward Ultra-Low Phase Noise Microwaves," Proceedings of the 41st Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting, Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico, November 2009, pp. 339-348.
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