Modulated interference effects: use of photoelastic modulators with lasers

Theodore C. Oakberg

doi:10.1117/12.186667

14 September 1994 Modulated interference effects: use of photoelastic modulators with lasers

Theodore C. Oakberg

Proceedings Volume 2265, Polarization Analysis and Measurement II; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.186667
Event: SPIE's 1994 International Symposium on Optics, Imaging, and Instrumentation, 1994, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

When photoelastic modulators (PEMs) are used with lasers as light sources, modulated interference effects may occur. Interference which occurs due to the reflection of light at the surfaces of the PEM optical element is modulated because the surfaces of the optical element are in relative motion synchronized with the oscillations of the modulator. Since the modulated interference frequencies are exactly the same as the polarization modulation frequencies being studied, they can be very troublesome. This paper will describe these effects quantitatively, give a simple test for their existence in an optical system and describe some techniques for their suppression or elimination.

Citation Download Citation

Theodore C. Oakberg "Modulated interference effects: use of photoelastic modulators with lasers", Proc. SPIE 2265, Polarization Analysis and Measurement II, (14 September 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.186667

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available