Advanced spatial light modulator development for miniature correlators

A new reflected mode magneto-optic spatial light modulator (R-MOSLM) has been developed for miniature optical correlators and computers. An improvement by a factor of four in pixel switching sensitivity, compared to the conventional transmission mode magneto-optic spatial light modulator (T-MOSLM), has been achieved by the use of narrower drive lines, and burying the conductor into the film. A higher resolution by a factor of three and a higher optical efficiency by a factor of two have also been achieved by the use of smaller pixels and narrower pixel gaps. The smaller pixels and improved switching sensitivity permit an order of magnitude reduction in optical path length and increase in frame rate, respectively