Analytical model for hybrid amplitude and phase modulation in dispersive radio over fiber links

A general model of analog microwave photonic links employing cascaded amplitude and phase external modulation is theoretically derived. Chromatic dispersion is also included in the model showing a different dispersion induced attenuation response in comparison to pure phase or amplitude modulation. Thus, hybrid modulation can be used to increase the bandwidth of radio over fiber links without the need of single-sideband modulation or dispersion compensation. Experimental results agreeing with the derived theory are also provided.