Light beam deflection with electrooptic prisms

Two classes of special EO prism configurations for light beam deflection are proposed. Simple formulas expressing resolvable spots N
R
and deflection angle φ in terms of the induced optical path difference between the two boundary rays of a parallel beam traversing the prisms are derived and are used to compare the relative merits of the special prism configurations. Design formulas for prisms in tandem are laid down. As examples, design curves for KD*P and LiNbO
3
deflectors using focused laser beams at room temperature are plotted. Some problems related to two-dimensional deflection are discussed.