Full W-band Photonic Frequency Hopping Generator Based on High-order Optical Frequency Multiplication

Millimeter-wave and terahertz wireless communications is advancing rapidly due to the vast unexplored spectrum resources and the potential to realise terabit links, with major research efforts ramping up around the world. However, the increase in data rates also poses significant challenges to link security such as leakage if eavesdroppers attempt to intercept it, especially in some sensitive areas such as the military and commercial industry. Frequency hopping technology can effectively ensure the confidentiality and jamming resistance of communications, and its performance can be improved as the hopping bandwidth increases. In this paper, we propose a novel millimeter-wave photonics frequency hopping generator based on high-order optical frequency multiplication, with ultra-wide hopping bandwidth and versatile operating frequency. A frequency hopping bandwidth of 35 GHz is achieved, covering the entire W-band from 75 GHz to 110 GHz. The proposal will be a viable solution for secure millimeter-wave and terahertz wireless links.