Near millimeter wavelength modulator and tunable oscillator

摘要

A modulator and tunable oscillator capable of reliable operation in the near millimeter wavelength region. The modulator is made up of a pair of reflectors and a beamsplitter interposed therebetween with one of the reflectors having variable reflectivity. In addition, the reflectors are spaced apart a preselected distance such that a resonant condition is achieved with respect to an incoming beam of near millimeter wavelength radiation. By applying a signal to the variable reflector a beam of radiant energy is generated at a wavelength at which a non-resonant condition is achieved between the reflectors. This generated beam of radiation is directed out of the modulator by the beamsplitter. The oscillator utilizes the same elements as the modulator and in addition incorporates therein an additional beam splitter and a detector as well as a feedback circuit between the detector and variable reflector.