Terahertz Frequency Combs

We review recent work on THz frequency combs generated by femtosecond lasers. An overview about the underlying theory and application examples for the analysis of THz signals are given. Using different optoelectronic detection methods, spatially resolved measurements of frequency, phase, and amplitude of GHz and THz emitters are presented. The measurement setup allows for high-precision measurements of the frequency (accuracy of 9 · 10^{? 14}within a 10 s measurement interval), relative amplitude (standard deviation of the mean 0.1 %) and phase (standard deviation of the mean 0.2°). Moreover, the accuracy and invasiveness of different optoelectronic techniques are compared. The large spectral coverage provided by THz frequency combs is demonstrated by simultaneously measuring signals at 16 GHz and 28 THz.