Abstract

Dynamically programmable optical processing and switching systems rely heavily on the availability and performance of spatial light modulators (SLMs). Several devices based on the refractive index change of a photosensitive material have been already demonstrated.¹ However, their performance has been shown to be limited, both in terms of sensitivity and resolution. As a result, new concepts are being investigated that would perform the SLM function. One alternative is to utilize the photorefractive effect.

© 1988 Optical Society of America