Abstract

A balanced optical discriminator for detection of angle modulation on a light beam is discussed. The device is similar, in principle, though different in form, to bridge-type microwave discriminators and optical birefringent crystal discriminators. An angle-modulated system at optical frequencies, employing a balanced discriminator, has advantages over intensity modulated systems which are familiar at radio frequencies. In addition, an angle modulated system is not as sensitive to strains, due to heating or crystal growth, in the modulating medium or to inhomogeneities in the transmission medium.

© 1964 Optical Society of America

Strain Effects in Electrooptic Light Modulators

I. P. Kaminow
Appl. Opt. 3(4) 511-515 (1964)

Optical fiber phase discriminator

B. L. Danielson
Appl. Opt. 17(22) 3665-3668 (1978)

Electrooptic Effect in Optically Active Crystals

C. F. Buhrer, L. Ho, and J. Zucker
Appl. Opt. 3(4) 517-521 (1964)

The Dielectric and Electrooptical Properties of a Molecular Crystal–Hexamine

G. H. Heilmeier
Appl. Opt. 3(11) 1281-1287 (1964)

Image of the Optical Grating Modulated by the Signal and Its Application to the Measurement of Strain Distribution

T. Suzuki, M. Mino, and G. Shinoda
Appl. Opt. 3(7) 825-832 (1964)