OFGU: Integrated Photonic Millimeter-Wave and Sub-THz Frequency Generator

One compact module, ultra-stable tunable RF carriers, 6 GHz to 220 GHz

We are excited to share with you our latest pilot light: an integrated photonics frequency generator with wide range capabilities, much beyond the > 70 GHz high-frequency range that traditional RF hardware struggle with. 

Integrated Frequency Generation in a Small Form Factor

The Optical Frequency Generation Unit (OFGU) is a low profile module which uses an integrated optical comb laser and heterodyne techniques to generate ultra-stable tunable RF carriers from 6 GHz to 220 GHz. It harnesses the power of photonics integrated circuit technology to deliver excellent frequency and phase stability, enabling the distribution of high-frequency signals over long fibre links.

OFGU replaces bulky electronic frequency-multiplier chains with a low-SWaP photonic engine. It delivers low phase noise at < -75 dBc/Hz @ 100 Hz offset, wide frequency agility at 6 GHz to 220 GHz, and seamless integration with optical networks and systems.

Photonic Comb Laser With On-Chip Filtering

At the heart of OFGU is Pilot Photonics’ gain-switched comb laser, monolithically integrated with injection-locked filtering on a single InP photonic integrated circuit (PIC). All optical functions, from comb generation, to active demux, to VOAs, SOAs, and splitters, are on-chip. 

For telecom applications, OFGU can act as a frequency generator for base stations or as a simultaneous 5G/6G signal distributor and remote frequency up-converter when kept at central office. For Test & Measurement applications, the wide tunable range of OFGU helps to achieve a wideband, consistent, and stable characterization of external components. It can also be used to measure distances with exceptional precision, regardless of environmental conditions. For Space applications, OFGU enables the use of low loss optical fibre for signal and carriers distribution inside satellites payload. The on-chip integration results in significant SWaP-C reduction along with superior performance. 

Leveraging the inherent advantages of integrated photonics, from wide bandwidth to low noise to efficient transmission over optical fibres,  we aim to provide scalable and energy-efficient alternatives to traditional electronic approaches. OFGU is the result of our commitment to realising the possibilities of integrated photonics, one laser at a time.