An optical processor for controlling a phased antenna array uses a frequency-shifted
feedback cavity (FSFC), which includes a traveling-wave cavity. The FSFC incrementally
delays and incrementally frequency shifts optical signals circulating in the traveling-wave
cavity. Optical signals coupled out of the FSFC are separated by frequency, hence
by delay, and processed to control either or both transmit and receive beam-forming
operations. The FSFC provides a receiver with multiple receive signals which have
incremental values of frequency. Each frequency corresponds to an incremental time
sampling of optical signals input into the FSFC. Transmit signals coupled out of
the FSFC have frequency and phase relationships that result in short time-domain
pulses when combined. Controlling modulation and frequency of the transmit signals
achieves carrier interference multiple access, a new type of spread-spectrum communications.
