Vernier-assisted mode-selective PT symmetry in optoelectronic oscillators

Abstract

Mode-selective PT-symmetry is the manifestation of Vernier-assisted cross-injection between oscillators with unequal delays. PT-symmetry has been proposed as a mechanism for achieving low-noise single-mode operation in optoelectronic oscillators, but existing formulations are typically based on matched delay loops and frequency-independent coupling, leading to symmetry transitions that are global in frequency and therefore not intrinsically mode selective. A more general formulation of PT-symmetric time-delay oscillators is developed in which the coupling operator is allowed to be dispersive. This permits frequency-selective PT-symmetry transitions and removes the requirement for matched delay loops. Two mathematically equivalent but physically distinct realisations are derived. The first corresponds to coupled gain-loss loops connected by a dispersive coupler, while the second corresponds to a pair of equal-gain oscillators coupled through symmetric cross-injection with unequal delays. Numerical simulations confirm the predicted behaviour and demonstrate strong sidemode suppression while preserving the low phase-noise characteristics of large-delay oscillators. The results establish a direct connection between PT-symmetry, cross-injection architectures, and Vernier oscillator design.