The OEwaves Low Phase Noise Tunable CW THz Source

OEwaves's Hi-Q Terahertz Source delivers reference frequency outputs tunable from 40 to 110 GHz with exceptionally low, frequency-independent phase noise. As higher-bandwidth photomixers become commercially available, this range can be readily extended to 500 GHz and beyond.

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The HI-Q® THz Source’s unique design is rooted in photonic generation of spectrally pure signals, ensuring phase noise remains independent of output frequency. This is achieved through OEwaves’ patented technology, which uses semiconductor lasers injection-locked to ultrahigh quality factor (Q) crystalline optical whispering gallery mode resonators. The source is frequency stabilized with an internal oscillator at the 10⁻¹⁰ stability level, and it can alternatively be locked to the stability level of an external local oscillator provided by the user.

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“With the rapid growth of 5G and 6G communications, the demand for high-performance, stable THz reference sources is accelerating,” said Lute Maleki, CEO of OEwaves. “This demand, along with increasing requirements for THz characterization of materials, are among the key drivers for our latest offering.”

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The high-performance THz source supports enhanced radar system visibility, stable clocking, expanded channel capacity for communication systems, high-speed data links, and next-generation 5G and 6G wireless networks. Its exceptional performance enables new capabilities for both legacy and emerging systems across terrestrial, airborne, military, and commercial space applications. Optional remote fiber optic output is also available.

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OEwaves will display the HI-Q series of low noise, high stability laser, THz, and RF products, including the HI-Q THz Source, at Photonics West 2025 in San Francisco, Jan. 28 – 30, Booth #3634

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