Frequency-division-multiplexed single-pixel imaging with metamaterials

We propose and experimentally realize the concept of frequency-division-multiplexed single-pixel imaging. Our technique relies entirely on metamaterial spatial light modulators, the advent of which has permitted advanced modulation techniques difficult to achieve with alternative approaches. So far, implementations of single-pixel imaging have used a single encoding frequency, making them sensitive to narrowband noise. Here, we implement frequency-division methods to parallelize the single-pixel imaging process at 3.2 THz. Our technique enables a trade-off between signal-to-noise ratio and acquisition speed—without altering detector integration time—thus realizing a key development due to the limitations imposed by slow thermal detectors in terahertz and far IR. In addition, our technique yields high image fidelity and marries communications concepts to single-pixel imaging, opening a new path forward for future imaging systems.