Abstract
High-speed photodiodes are a key element of numerous photonic systems. With the development of potential applications in the THz range such as sensing, spectroscopy, and wireless transmission, devices with integrated antenna covering the frequency range from 0.1 to 3 THz will become essential. In this paper, we discuss the development of uni-traveling carrier photodiodes with integrated antennas to address that need. In particular we develop the key elements to present a simple design tool for the efficient integration of the device with an antenna. We also present fabricated device results that show the highest figure of merit to date for photonic THz emitters. When integrated with well-matched antennas the devices have achieved record level of power up to 1 THz compared to other published photomixers. We also show that these devices can be used as receivers at frequencies up to 560 GHz with conversion losses of the order of 30 dB.
Highlights
R ECENT work on high-speed photodetectors has shown significant improvements including higher responsivity [1] through better optical coupling, higher output power [2] and larger bandwidth [3]
One particular frequency range where photonic solutions have been at the forefront of developments is the millimetre wave to THz range (0.1 THz–10 THz) [4]
We outline the importance of determining the impedance of the uni-travelling carrier photodiode (UTC-PD) across the frequency range
Summary
R ECENT work on high-speed photodetectors has shown significant improvements including higher responsivity [1] through better optical coupling, higher output power [2] and larger bandwidth [3] These different developments have been key for such devices to find application in a set of photonic systems with ever increasing technical demands. We will show the results obtained from integrated antenna devices both as emitters and receivers showing their outstanding performance, in terms of efficiency in converting optical power to electrical power, where their figure of merit (PT H z /Po2pt ) is the highest published to date These results demonstrate clearly the advantages of the overall waveguide design for developing efficient photomixers for THz applications, there is still scope for work on the optimisation of both optical coupling and antenna design to enhance the efficiency of the emitter further.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
