Millimeter-Wave Harmonic Signal Generation and Distribution Using a Tunable Single-Resonance Microwave Photonic Filter

A millimeter-wave (mm-wave) harmonic signal generation method is proposed and verified experimentally. The mm-wave harmonic signals of high order are generated through the intrinsic nonlinear transfer characteristics of the Mach-Zehnder amplitude modulator. A tunable single-resonance microwave photonic filter is used to select the specific order of harmonic signal. Signals up to the fourth harmonic at 20 GHz can be generated by low-frequency driving signal at 5 GHz.