Designing Multi-Channel Microwave Radio Systems Using Optical Interconnects

Imagine if it was possible to build multi-channel microwave radio systems leveraging optical rather than copper interconnects. Several benefits of this paradigm shift seem likely to occur including:

Streaming sample control and configuration data, as well as reference clock and synchronization signals via fiber, simplifies radio front-end design and signal distribution whilst simultaneously reducing cable mass.

Eliminating copper signal wiring in future radio designs offers increased architectural freedom and flexibility whilst reducing crosstalk and inter-channel interference for better performance.

The optical concept substantiates a valuable separation of front-end analog design from back-end digital signal processing heralding the arrival of fully digital antennas with enhanced operation arising from advanced electronic beam steering.

On initial consideration, this optical transport idea may not seem especially innovative, given the profusion of optical links widely used across global data centers. There is a strong case for using fiber as highlighted in the accompanying sidebar. However, in the context of radio design, there are novel engineering challenges to be resolved.