The MESFET as an optically activated microwave switch-theory and experiment

A novel model for the optical switching of the MESFET is presented. The model is based on basic principles, and predicts the optical switching performance as a function of the optical signal parameters, the bias level, and the device physics and geometry. The results and conclusions from the theory are verified by measurements. Both the theoretical and experimental results indicate that standard commercially available microwave MESFETs are not fast optical switches, and that their response time runs in the microsecond range. The proposed model can serve as a tool for designing an optimal MESFET for optical switching purposes.<
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