Ambiguity Processor Architectures Using One-Dimensional Acousto-Optic Transducers

With the maturing of acousto-optic technology, acousto-optic cells can provide a welcome replacement for two-dimensional processors. One such process of considerable interest is the ambiguity function. This paper presents several optical architectures which use one-dimensional acousto-optic transducers to implement the cross-ambiguity and auto-ambiguity functions. Most are two-dimensional extensions of the basic 1-d correlator. The paper begins with a brief description of the 1-d correlator, its extension to two dimensions, and its use as a spectrum analyzer. It then goes on to motivate and describe several ambiguity processor architectures. Finally, test results are presented, demonstrating successful processing of test signals.