New Acousto-Optic Devices For Fourier Transformation

Acousto-optical computation of continuous and discrete Fourier transforms have been performed using a time-integrating architecture. Time-integration in conjunction with diode lasers and bulk optics can be used to produce inherently compact optical systems, and several compact processors have been demonstrated. Performance parameters and tradeoffs have been analyzed for these processors, and present device limitations identified. Additional new concepts for miniaturization, including application of integrated optics, and multichannel operation are discussed.