Mach-zehnder based optical marker/comb generator for streak camera calibration
This disclosure is directed to a method and apparatus for generating marker and comb indicia in an optical environment using a Mach-Zehnder (M-Z) modulator. High speed recording devices are configured to record image or other data defining a high speed event. To calibrate and establish time reference, the markers or combs are indicia which serve as timing pulses (markers) or a constant-frequency train of optical pulses (comb) to be imaged on a streak camera for accurate time based calibration and time reference. The system includes a camera, an optic signal generator which provides an optic signal to an M-Z modulator and biasing and modulation signal generators configured to provide input to the M-Z modulator. An optical reference signal is provided to the M-Z modulator. The M-Z modulator modulates the reference signal to a higher frequency optical signal which is output through a fiber coupled link to the streak camera.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC52-06NA25946
- Assignee:
- National Security Technologies, LLC (Las Vegas, NV)
- Patent Number(s):
- 8,970,724
- Application Number:
- 13/918,724
- OSTI ID:
- 1171647
- Resource Relation:
- Patent File Date: 2013 Jun 14
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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