Nonlinear transmission line modulator

摘要

A modulator is provided that comprises a nonlinear transmission line (NLTL) that is bias modulated by a baseband signal. A given logic state of the baseband signal determines a delay amount of a first carrier signal through the NLTL. The modulator further comprises an impulse forming network (IFN) that includes a first NLTL that receives the first carrier signal delayed by the determined delay amount and a second NLTL that receives a second carrier signal having a fixed delay amount. The first NLTL and second NLTL within the IFN have opposite diode polarity configurations. The modulator further comprises a power combiner that converts a delta delay of the first carrier signal relative to the second carrier signal to a sharp impulse that represents the given logic state of the baseband signal.