Photonic RF Channelization Based on Microcombs

Abstract: In recent decades, microwave photonic channelization techniques have developed significantly. Characterized by low loss, high versatility, large instantaneous bandwidth, and immunity to electromagnetic interference, microwave photonic channelization addresses the requirements of modern radar and electronic warfare for receivers. Microresonator-based optical frequency combs are promising devices for photonic channelized receivers, enabling full advantage of multicarriers, large bandwidths, and accelerating the integration process of microwave photonic channelized receivers. In this paper, we review the research progress and trends in microwave photonic channelization, focusing on schemes that utilize integrated microcombs. We discuss the potential of microcomb-based RF channelization, as well as their challenges and limitations, and provide perspectives for their future development in the context of on-chip silicon-based photonics.