This invention is an ultrafast photodetector, also known as a optical-to-microwave transformer (OMT), which will simultaneously improve the bandwidth, efficiency and optical saturation power. Using separated input and output transmission lines and a unique velocity-matching circuit structure, very high bandwidths (several hundred GHz) can be obtained without sacrificing detector efficiency. This invention also increases the optical saturation power by one to two orders of magnitude. This high power capability gives photonics a new dimension in its microwave application.

Initial results show that bandwidths as high as 300 GHz can be achieved with a detection efficiency of 50%. The input coupling efficiency of this novel OMT can be optimized at over 90%. This invention can be manufactured at low cost and will make it possible to integrate photodetectors with microwave-distributed amplifiers and antenna. It can also be used in wireless networks with optical fiber backbones where a large number of low-cost and efficient optical-to-electrical converters are needed.

Reference: UCLA Case No. 1993-510

US Patent Number: 5,572,014