Modeling SAW chirp Fourier transformers with differential equations

The surface acoustic wave (SAW) chirp Fourier transformer (CFT) generates the continuous Fourier transform of a time-limited signal. It has been shown that the SAW CFT would be a competitive way to convert frequency division multiple access (FDMA) signals to time division multiplexed (TDM) signals in satellites, where mass and power consumption are critical issues. In this paper, we outline an executable model of the SAW CFT. Simulation is based upon the numerical integration of ordinary differential and difference equations that represent the system components. The model allows for the easy incorporation of higher order effects, and serves as an executable model for deployment in communication system simulations.