Multiple quantum well birefringent spatial light modulator

摘要

A multiple quantum well birefringent spatial light modulator has a substrate, multiple quantum well layers thereon, contacts for applying a biasing electric field across the multiple quantum well layers; and a component for varying the biasing electric field to produce birefringence in the multiple quantum well layer enhanced by the Stark effect and thereby effecting modulation of light exiting therefrom. The electric field may be varied directly by varying the voltage applied across the contacts or by providing a photodetector in series with the multiple quantum well layers and using a writing beam impinging on a photodetector to vary the field.