Model reference control of a laser beam steering system for laser communication applications

High data rates of laser communication systems must be complemented by high tracking bandwidth of acousto-optic beam steering technology utilizing Bragg cells. This research investigates applications of advanced control techniques to enhance characteristics of a laser beam steering system containing a Bragg cell - quadrant detector combination. Laboratory characterization of both devices resulting in detailed mathematical description and simulation models is presented. An adaptive model reference controller is designed and validated by computer simulation.