Fast-scanning continuously variable THz spectrum analyzers based on the Fabry-Perot

Abstract

A THz Fabry-Perot spectrum analyzer is presented that uses substrate-based, wire-grid polarizers as the reflectors. Previous THz scanning Fabry-Perot concepts have used wiremeshes or thin metallic layers as the reflectors, both of which are effective to some degree, but lack tunability. The use of wire-grid polarizers allows for fully tunable resolution and throughput, thus enhancing the Fabry-Perot by increasing its operational flexibility. Here the Fabry-Perot concept for a fast-scanning THz spectrum analyzer is presented, potential applications are shown, and the wire-grid reflector concept is demonstrated.