State-of-the-art multi-functional RF signal analyzer for research on next-generation software-defined communication technologies and systems

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The central goal of the proposed research program is to develop and evaluate innovative technologies and designs for the practical realization of the software-defined design paradigm in fiber-wireless network platforms, particularly within the 5G communication framework, a feat that must be urgently addressed to meet the performance requirements of future telecommunication systems and networks. Our short-term focus is on the development of the needed devices and sub-systems for implementation of elastic radio-access networks, so-called cloud RANs (or C-RANs). We will pursue the demonstration of innovative signal generation, processing and analysis technologies capable of delivering the stringent performance specifications that are required for next-generation 5G communication applications, in terms of bandwidth provisioning scalability, agility, energy and cost efficiency, beyond the potential of present digital signal processing (DSP) or analog radio-frequency (RF, from microwave to mm-wave) technologies. Our vision involves the use of a microwave-photonics (MWP) approach, which will exploit the use of optical technologies, enhanced by advanced mm-wave circuit designs, for the synthesis, real-time analysis and processing of RF signals in a fully reconfigurable and efficient fashion. We will target implementation of all needed RF and MWP signal processing units in compact, fully integrated formats (i.e., on a chip), a crucial realization for a successful deployment of the proposed designs in real-world settings. ******Funding is requested towards the purchase of a broadband Radio-Frequency (RF) Signal Analyzer, in particular the UXA Signal Analyzer (Model: N9040B) from Keysight Technologies, covering a remarkably large frequency band, from 2 Hz to 50 GHz, and easily upgradable up to 110 GHz. The instrument includes three high precision and high dynamic-range measurement capabilities, of critical importance for realization of the planned work, namely (1) the spectrum analysis, (2) the real-time signal modulation analysis, and (3) the phase noise/jitter measurement units. This equipment provides state-of-the-art multi-functional capabilities for comprehensive, highly-accurate measurement, analysis and testing of the main and key specifications of microwave-photonic and RF technologies, from the component to the system level, for their application in next-generation software-defined transceivers in communication, radar, imaging and sensing platforms, with capabilities commensurate with the 5G requirements. ******The proposed activities will open new avenues in RF and photonics research, with solid commercialization opportunities. The new knowledge generated from the project and the training of highly qualified personnel associated with the different stages of this work will enhance Canada's global competitiveness, especially in microwave and mm-wave engineering, optics and photonics, and the related high-technology sectors. *****