A frequency translator, a method, and a machine readable medium for performing frequency signal translations are disclosed. The frequency translator includes a modulator for modulating an optical pulse train with an input RF signal to generate an output optical pulse train having the amplitude information of the input RF signal at a plurality of times corresponding to the optical pulse train. In addition, the frequency translator includes a modulator for modulating the output optical pulse train by a digital cosine function having a desired target frequency to generate a translated optical signal. The frequency translator further includes a photodetector configured to generate an electrical waveform with the translated optical signal having the amplitude information of the input RF signal centered at the desired target frequency.