High-speed spatial light modulator

A high-speed, coherent spatial light modulator is under development. It is based on the coupling of a silicon photodiode and electrooptic crystal. The design criteria and theoretical performance are presented. Optical quality of
\lambda/20
rms at
\lambda = 500
nm over a 1 in aperture has been demonstrated. Submicrosecond write and erase rates are predicted. Heat dissipation limits the predicted continuous rate to 2.5 kHz or higher, depending on required optical quality. Calculated phase MTF is 50 percent at 10 cycles/mm.