We describe the efficient conversion of light from a laser diode into a Bessel beam whose axial intensity varies almost uniformly with distance using only a holographic optical element. An interesting shadowing property of the Bessel beam is demonstrated where on blocking the intense central spot the propagating ring pattern acts to reform the central spot a short distance following the obstruction. This behaviour together with the long propagation range for the Bessel beam's central spot are considered for multiboard optical interconnects. [References: 22]
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