Terahertz Sources and Detectors

Photonic generation of terahertz (THz) signals is a promising technology for future sensing and high-speed communication applications. The Uni-Travelling-Carrier (UTC) photo mixer provides high bandwidth and high saturation-output-power simultaneously ideally suited for this range of applications.

THz radiation is a part of the electromagnetic spectrum that lies between microwaves and the distant Infrared (frequencies 0.1 - 10THz or wavelengths 3 - 0.03mm). This spectral range is often called the "Terahertz gap" since these frequencies are between the electronic (measurement of the field with antennas) and the optical (measurement with optical detectors) method. Similar to X-rays, THz waves penetrate most materials and can easily detect defects such as cavities, cracks, and density fluctuations.

Unlike X-rays, THz is non-ionising and therefore completely safe. Examples of imaging techniques are the detection of dangerous objects in checked baggage and parcels or on humans. THz imaging also allows to study of the molecular composition of objects and to distinguish between different materials. In addition to the above advantages, the THz range is increasingly being used for wireless communication at very high data rates.