Abstract

Quantum well (QW) reflection modulators show promise for a large number of applications,^1-3 We previously discussed a novel use of these devices to perform optical beam steering using an individually addressable array of modulators.³ With only fifteen stripes, our device exhibited a deflection angle of 2° and an output beam width of ~0.1°. These parameters can both be greatly improved by using a larger number of smaller stripes. Unfortunately, the measured efficiency of 3.8% is dose to the maximum obtainable efficiency of ~7% and does not increase with the number of stripes.³ A phase modulator using the same asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulator (AFPM) technology would dramatically increase the efficiency.

© 1992 Optical Society of America