Optimization of primary Kerr optical frequency combs for tunable microwave generation

We analyze the condition under which Kerr combs generate the highest microwave output power after photodetection. These optimal comb states correspond to configurations in which the sidemode-to-pump ratio is the highest possible. For the case of primary combs, we show how the interplay between the power and frequency of the pump laser critically influences this ratio, which has a direct influence on the phase noise performance of the generated microwaves. We also experimentally demonstrate primary combs with a sidemode-to-pump ratio as high as -2 dB, thereby leading to efficient energy conversion from the lightwave to the microwave frequency range. (C) 2017 Optical Society of America