Modelling and design of optically controlled MMIC oscillators

The design and performance of an optically injection-locked X-band MMIC HEMT oscillator is reported and compared with an earlier MMIC MESFET VCO. The transmission of FM signals using the optically injection-locked HEMT oscillator is demonstrated. Accurate large-signal models for illuminated active MMIC devices have been developed. The models have been implemented in a commercial, industry-standard microwave circuit simulator (HP's MDS), and have been verified through the simulation not only of device behaviour but of the overall circuit behaviour of the MESFET VCO as well.