Continuously tunable orthogonally polarized RF optical single sideband generator based on micro-ring resonators

We demonstrate a continuously RF tunable orthogonally polarized optical single sideband (OP-OSSB) generator based on dual cascaded micro-ring resonators (MRRs). By splitting the input double sideband signal into an orthogonally polarized carrier and lower sideband via TE- and TM-polarized MRRs, an OP-OSSB signal is generated. A large tuning range of the optical carrier to sideband ratio of up to 57.3 dB is achieved by adjusting the polarization angle of the input light. The operation RF frequency of the OP-OSSB generator can be continuously tuned with a 21.4 GHz range via independent thermal control of the two MRRs. Our device represents a competitive approach towards OP-OSSB generation with wideband tunable RF operation, and is promising for photonic RF signal transmission and processing in radar and communication systems. (paper)