A Multi-GHz Multi-Channel Photonic Analog Data Processing System

Oscilloscopes based on the Cathode Ray Tube technology have been the basis of conventional high speed data recording at analog bandwidths greater than 200 MHz. With the advent of high bandwidth optical fibers and fiber sensors, an alternate and eventually more economical method for high speed data recording is possible. In this approach, the combined broad band characteristics of the optical fiber and the electrooptical streak camera are utilized to extend bandwidth, to limit signal degradation, and to permit synchronous multi-channel high speed data recording.