Efficient T/R switch design for beam steering with liquid crystal spatial light modulator

Katherine L. Drain; Qiwen Zhan

doi:10.1117/12.823410

28 April 2009 Efficient T/R switch design for beam steering with liquid crystal spatial light modulator

Katherine L. Drain, Qiwen Zhan

Proceedings Volume 7339, Enabling Photonics Technologies for Defense, Security, and Aerospace Applications V; 73390E (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.823410
Event: SPIE Defense, Security, and Sensing, 2009, Orlando, Florida, United States

Abstract

Liquid crystal spatial light modulators have important applications in nonmechanical beam steering. In this application, a suitable T/R switch that separates the transmitter and receiver of the system is required. Since LC devices require a certain linear polarization state incident upon it in order to steer an incoming laser beam, previous T/R switches through the use of the combination of a circular polarization state and a polarization beam splitter proved to be a lossy solution. Through the use of a two dimensional reflection type liquid crystal spatial light modulator and a large clear aperture Faraday rotator, it is possible to develop a fairly compact and efficient nonmechanical beam steering device, which can be utilized in laser scanning imaging systems. In this paper, we will present the design of such a T/R switch. Experimental results at a 1.06 μm operation wavelength will be demonstrated.

Citation Download Citation

Katherine L. Drain and Qiwen Zhan "Efficient T/R switch design for beam steering with liquid crystal spatial light modulator", Proc. SPIE 7339, Enabling Photonics Technologies for Defense, Security, and Aerospace Applications V, 73390E (28 April 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.823410

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