Quantitative optical microscope with enhanced resolution using a pixelated liquid crystal spatial light modulator

This paper presents a brief account of a novel optical microscope, which combines the advantages of two well‐known techniques, namely phase contrast and phase stepping, to provide high contrast imaging and precision measurements. The inclusion of a programmable liquid crystal spatial light modulator provides for the phase stepping required, while also allowing flexibility for future improvements. The results shown reveal an important aspect of the system to facilitate quantitative sample measurements, with an enhancement of optical resolution compared with conventional optical imaging systems.