Abstract

Optical processing devices based on a phase conjugate resonator have high spatial resolution, resulting from the large number of transverse modes that are allowed. However, these devices are also subject to spatial and temporal instabilities due to transverse mode competition at the phase conjugate mirror. We have recently demonstrated that an intracavity mode homogenizer such as a multimode fiber or light pipe can eliminate spatial and temporal instabilities. In this current work, we characterize a new class of mode homogenizers: tapered fiber optic bundles. One taper under investigation has an area ratio of 36:1 and is inserted as closely as possible between the BaTiO₃ phase conjugate mirror and the conventional high reflecting mirror, with the large end adjacent to the conventional mirror. In the experiments with the intracavity taper, we find that the spatial and temporal stability are greatly improved and the overall transverse extent of the oscillating mode is increased. Applications of this architecture for optical data processing will be presented.

© 1992 Optical Society of America