• Journal of Sensor Science and Technology
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• v.31 no.4
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• pp.194-213
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• 2022

This study comprehensively reviewed four types of integrated-optic electric-field sensors based on titanium diffused lithium-niobate waveguides: symmetric and asymmetric Mach-Zehnder interferometers, 1×2 directional couplers, and Y-fed balanced-bridge Mach-Zehnder interferometers. First, we briefly explain the crystal properties and electro-optic effect of lithium niobate and the waveguide fabrication process. We theoretically analyzed the key parameters and operating principles of each sensor and antennas. We also describe and compare the design, simulation, implementation, and performance tests: dc and ac characteristics, frequency response, dynamic range, and sensitivity. The experimental results revealed that the sensitivity of the sensor based on the Y-fed balanced bridge Mach-Zehnder interferometer (YBB-MZI) was higher than that of the other types of sensors.

• Journal of the Institute of Electronics and Information Engineers
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• v.53 no.1
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• pp.29-35
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• 2016

We have demonstrated a $Ti:LiNbO_3$ electro-optic electric-field sensors utilizing a $1{\times}2$ Y-fed balanced-bridge Mach-Zehnder interferometric (YBB-MZI) modulator which uses a 3-dB directional coupler at the output and dipole patch antenna. The operation and design were proved by the BPM simulation. A dc switching voltage of ~16.6 V and an extinction ratio of ~14.7 dB are observed at a wavelength of $1.3{\mu}m$. For a 20 dBm rf power, the minimum detectable electric-fields are ~1.12 V/m and ~3.3 V/m corresponding to a dynamic range of about ~22 dB and ~18 dB at frequencies 10 MHz and 50 MHz, respectively. The sensors exhibit almost linear response for the applied electric-field intensity from 0.29 V/m to 29.8 V/m.