<title>Fourier optical signal processors based on polarization multiplexing</title>

Abstract

A new Fourier optical architecture based on polarization multiplexing has been developed. In contrast to the customary scalar designs, the two orthogonal polarizations of the light wave are used to realize two independent transmission channels within the same volume. This result in a compact Fourier optical processor whose volume is reduced by 75 percent in comparison with the canonical 4-f system. Additionally the new architecture also for fully electronical switching between the two operation modes namely correlation and spectrum analysis. The paper describes the basic parameters which govern the design of miniaturized optical correlators and elaborates on an actual realization of a compact Fourier optical processor which employs polarization multiplexing.