Abstract

We present an optical frequency divider based on a $200\mathrm{MHz}$ repetition rate Er:fiber mode-locked laser that, when locked to a stable optical frequency reference, generates microwave signals with absolute phase noise that is equal to or better than cryogenic microwave oscillators. At $1\mathrm{Hz}$ offset from a $10\mathrm{GHz}$ carrier, the phase noise is below $-100\mathrm{dBc}/\mathrm{Hz}$, limited by the optical reference. For offset frequencies $>10\mathrm{kHz}$, the phase noise is shot noise limited at $-145\mathrm{dBc}/\mathrm{Hz}$. An analysis of the contribution of the residual noise from the Er:fiber optical frequency divider is also presented.

© 2011 Optical Society of America

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