Holographic multichannel radio-frequency correlator

Abstract

We introduce a multichannel radio-frequency (RF) correlator capable of correlating a received RF signal simultaneously against a library of known reference waveforms stored as angularly multiplexed holograms in a photorefractive crystal. The system's operation is inherently two-dimensional and may yield a compact, robust, and efficient device through integrated optical techniques, in contrast to previous optical multichannel schemes. Operation of a 16-channel system is experimentally demonstrated.