All optical broadband steering by phase angle controlled stationary element (PACSE) mirrors

David V. Tsu; Robert O. Miller; David Strand

doi:10.1117/12.646580

24 February 2006 All optical broadband steering by phase angle controlled stationary element (PACSE) mirrors

David V. Tsu, Robert O. Miller, David Strand

Proceedings Volume 6123, Integrated Optics: Devices, Materials, and Technologies X; 61230X (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.646580
Event: Integrated Optoelectronic Devices 2006, 2006, San Jose, California, United States

Abstract

We describe a method to achieve phased array steering at the near infrared (i.e., optical) frequencies used in telecommunication (1550 nm) as an alternative to physical movement of standard mirrors. A stationary and planar multi-layer device utilizes a chalcogenide phase change material^1,2 (PCM) as its active element whose refractive index changes by very large amounts (> 1.7X) between its amorphous and crystalline states. The optical phase angle upon reflection off this surface can change by more than 180° depending on physical state of the PCM. Phasor analysis is used to explain how such large phase angle shifts can be accomplished for a PCM layer only 20 nm thick. Not only can this be used to make rewritable diffractive elements, but since the phase taper can be made nearly continuous, the surface can also steer the beam in non-specular directions with no diffractive distortions. To date, we have steered a telecom beam 2° in one direction, and expect deflections by more than 10°. The steering is broad-banded, self latching, and potential switching speeds are expected to be less than 100 ns.

Citation Download Citation

David V. Tsu, Robert O. Miller, and David Strand "All optical broadband steering by phase angle controlled stationary element (PACSE) mirrors", Proc. SPIE 6123, Integrated Optics: Devices, Materials, and Technologies X, 61230X (24 February 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.646580

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