Performance optimization of RSOA based mm-wave radio-over-fibre access network

In this paper, a Reflective Semiconductor Optical Amplifier based, Radio-over-Fibre access network configuration has been proposed to feed future millimeter-wave radio systems. The system architecture combines several approaches to overcome the challenges of millimeter-wave signal transmission. Reflective semiconductor optical amplifier modulator realizes a colorless and relatively cost-effective Remote Antenna Unit. The same optical carrier is used for both downlink and uplink. Optical single-sideband modulation is used at the downlink, which is robust against chromatic dispersion, but the complex realization of this modulation format is not possible at the Remote Antenna Unit. Optical intermediate frequency transmission is applied at the uplink direction, and the required local oscillator signal originates from the central station. The critical element is the reflective optical amplifier, as it compensates for the optical loss and works as an external intensity modulator. The operation of the reflective optical amplifier is modeled by multisection rate and wave equation-based description. The amplification and modulation behaviors of an available reflective optical amplifier are also measured. The experimental work validated the colorless operation and the quality of the modulation versus bias current and input optical power. Finally, system simulation was realized. The uplink and downlink power budgets were balanced, and optimal values for the optical coupling rate and RSOA bias current have been selected.