Abstract

A surface waveguide electrooptic deflector as described in the literature is analyzed in terms of a simple 2-D prism model. The model is treated by geometric as well as physical optics, and the far-field interference pattern is calculated. The results of this analysis are used to predict an upper limit to the ultimate resolvability of such a device. The maximum number of resolvable spots per centimeter of beamwidth, assuming ±500-V drive, 50-μm prism aperture, and diffraction-limited operation, is shown to be on the order of 10³. It is also shown that this ultimate resolution can be obtained only if the far-field interference pattern generated by the periodicity of the deflector array is overcome.

© 1980 Optical Society of America

Linear phase shift electrodes for the planar electrooptic prism deflector

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