Abstract

Optical photons with energies higher than the bandgap energy of a semiconductor can excite electron-hole pairs in that material. Since the characteristics of almost all semiconductor devices depend heavily on the number of charge carriers available, strong interactions between the performance of the device and the illuminating optical signal can be expected. The use of an optical signal to control solid-state microwave devices has attracted the attention of many researchers recently. It is a promising method of providing high-speed control of microwave signals at relatively high power levels. In addition, it offers the advantages of near perfect isolation between the microwave circuits and the input control signals, resistance to electromagnetic interferences, and savings in space and weight through replacing microwave cables and waveguides by optical fibers.

© 1980 Optical Society of America