Millimetric optical source for a radio-over-fibre distribution network

摘要

The source comprises a laser (2) which is optically coupled to at least one optical fibre which is to be used for the distribution of radio signals. A control (12) for the laser comprises an RF electrical generator (14) which operates such that the laser generates a millimetric carrier having a determined phase. This millimetric carrier is then transmitted on the optical fibre. A dispersive medium (6) is then optically coupled to the laser and serves to shift the phase of the carrier. A peak of absorption appears in the optical fibre so the source becomes insensitive to the dispersion of the fibre. The dispersive medium may be directly coupled to the laser, or may be indirectly coupled through a further optical component such as an optical coupler, an optical amplifier or an optical modulator.