University of Cyprus: Innovative photonic circuits for 6G networks: new project at the University of Cyprus with RIF funding

In order to develop cutting-edge technologies for future sixth generation (6G) networks, the research project ‘PICSOC’ was launched at the University of Cyprus. The project has a duration of two years and is funded with €200.000 from the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation, under the programme “Islands of Excellence. The project coordinator is Postdoctoral Researcher Dimitrios Kastritsis (EMPHASIS). The academic coordinator of the project is Professor Stavros Iezekiel (ECE) of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

This project will be implemented in the Microwave Photonics Research Laboratory of the University of Cyprus and will exploit activities already funded in this laboratory by the European Space Agency (ESA) with a view to their application in new areas, in particular in the generation of high-frequency RF signals for 6G terrestrial systems.

PICSOC will develop photonic integrated circuits (PICs) based on indium phosphide (InP), using available manufacturing services for the production of PICs. The main roles of the PC will be the design and simulation of the PIC and subsequent characterization of the PIC, as well as the overall proposed system. The goal is to produce signals at extremely high frequencies, such as those required for future 6G networks – with an emphasis on stability and transmission accuracy.

This will be achieved through the implementation of a self-oscillating optical frequency comb in an optoelectronic oscillator topology. It is envisaged that the application of photonic millimeter wave (mmW) signal generation in PICs will lead to reliable and compact units with low power consumption compared to current alternative implementations.

By aiming to create an Island of Excellence for the development of photonic ICs for 6G networks, the PICSOC project strengthens Cyprus’ position on the map of international innovation and creates the conditions for the development of advanced solutions in critical technology areas such as the Internet of Things and next generation communications.

Information: https://www.linkedin.com/company/picsoc-project

Source: University of Cyprus | Latest news (https://tinyurl.com/bddm64tb)