Acute twist nematic liquid crystal electro-optic modulator for use in an infrared optical communication system having extinction ratio of - 25db

摘要

A twisted nematic liquid crystal-based electro-optic modulator with a twist angle between 0° and 90°, and preferably between 50. degree. and 80° is provided. The modulator provides a relatively rapid switching time such as less than about 50 milliseconds, and provides relatively large extinction ratios, such as greater than - 25 dB. Preferably the liquid crystal entrance director differs from the polarization direction by a beta angle of about 15°.