Optically-Driven Programmable Microwave Metasurfaces

Programmable metasurfaces have the real-time programmability for controlling electromagnetic (EM) waves, possessing many potential applications. Programmable metasurfaces were constructed typically by using the direct-current (DC) control system. However, these electronically-controlled metasurfaces need field-programmable gate arrays, power supplies and many wires. In this paper, we present an optically driven programmable microwave metasurface to implement different EM functions, such as dynamic vortex-beam generation and illusion. Our realized optically driven metasurface avoids the cross-talk between the DC signal and EM signal, and can realize noncontact remote control.