Wideband Photonic and Compressive Sampling Analog-to-Digital Converter: Architecture, Device Requirements and Applications

In this work, an analog-to-digital converter architecture utilizing the precision timing and wide bandwidth capability of photonics technology and the versatility and efficient data processing of compressive sampling techniques is explored. The generation, control and transfer of the precision timing and sampled resolution to the final digitization stage is a key technical challenge to realizing the potential of the architecture; involving significant component, sub-system and interface developments as well as optimizations to capitalize on the unique benefits of compressive sampling techniques. Concept demonstration experiments, device and subsystem requirements and potential applications will be discussed.