USB-based controller for generic MEM device deformable mirrors

摘要

The use of Micro-Electro-Machined (MEM) devices as deformable mirrors (DM) for active and adaptive optics is increasing dramatically. Such increases are due to both the cost and simplicity of use of these devices. Our experience with MEM DMs has been positive, however the controlling protocols of these devices presents some issues. Based on our experience and needs we decided to design a generic controller based on a fast communication protocol. These requirements have pushed us to design a system around a USB 2.0 protocol. In this paper we present our architectural design for such controller. We present also experimental data and analysis on the performance of the controller. We describe the pros and cons of such approach versus other techniques. We will address how general such architecture is and how portable is to other systems.