Opto-VLSI-based RF beamformer for Space Division Multiple Access network

In this paper, the architecture of a photonic-assisted smart antenna for Space-division Multiple Access (SDMA) is described. Antenna beam steering is achieved by generating independent true-time delay (TTD) for each element in the antenna arrays, through the use of an Opto-VLSI Processor in conjunction with a 10-km single mode optical fibre. Experimental results demonstrate RF beam steering in 4-element linear patch antenna array operating at 1.85GHz are presented.