Generation of linearly polarized modes using a digital micromirror device and phase optimization

Abstract

Linearly polarized modes were generated from the fundamental LP01 using Lee holograms displayed on a digital micromirror device. The phase in the holograms was optimized using simulated annealing algorithm and complex amplitude correlation to improve the quality of the converted modes. The correlation measurements, and comparisons between numerical and experimental results, show the fidelity of the obtained modes and the effectiveness of the optimization. Furthermore, the optimized holograms can be combined to generate multiple modes spatially addressed with individual control. The results, and the use of a digital micromirror device instead of the most common liquid crystal modulators, make this method suitable for Modal Division Multiplexing systems and compatible with other optical telecommunication techniques like Wavelength and Polarization Division multiplexing, and reconfigurable optical networks.