Analysis and Simulation of a Wireless Phased Array System with Optical Carrier Distribution and an Optical IQ Return Path

In this paper we present a new system concept for an optoelectronic wireless phased array system. Like in a conventional phased array system with optical carrier distribution, optical fibers are used to distribute the carrier from the basestation to the wireless frontends. However in contrast to prior concepts, we propose to use an optical IQ return path from the wireless frontends back to the basestation. Furthermore, we reuse the optical carrier signal for the IQ return path which allows to avoid local oscillator lasers in the wireless frontends and reduces the hardware effort significantly. The system concept allows to integrate all components of an optoelectronic wireless frontend in a single chip using silicon photonics technology.