Advances in ultra-wideband and adaptive microwave photonic signal processors

Photonic signal processing offers the prospect of realising extremely high multi-GHz sampling frequencies, overcoming inherent electronic limitations. These processors provide new capabilities for realising high time-bandwidth operation and high-resolution performance. In-fibre signal processors are inherently compatible with fibre optic microwave systems that can integrate with wireless antennas, and can provide connectivity with in-built signal conditioning. Recent new methods in wideband signal processors including photonic mixers, beamforming elements for phased arrays, and microwave photonic filters with ultra-wideband and adaptive processing capability, are presented.