Arrays and New Antenna Topologies for Increasing THz Power Generation Using Photomixers

Power limitations in CW THz generation imposed by conventional photomixers (“antenna emitters”, AEs) are the major drawbacks on THz generation. From the antenna point of view, two different strategies are proposed to increase the generated power: optimized arrays and lenses arrangements and the use of new dielectric horn antennas. Then, using multiple small lenses, one per each single element, instead of a large one, bigger than the array, makes the generated power much higher. In addition, horn antennas etched in the substrate are considered in order to reduce the energy distribution scattering. Finally, some manufacturing issues are discussed.