Thorlabs EXULUS-HD1 reflective two-dimensional spatial light modulator

Thorlabs has announced its EXULUS-HD1 reflective two-dimensional spatial light modulator (SLM) based on liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) technology. The SLM provides high-resolution, high-speed phase modulation with minimal fluctuations, making it suitable for use in a wide range of applications such as optical trapping, beam steering and shaping, femtosecond pulse shaping, adaptive optics, display and imaging, and holography.

The product includes a built-in SLM panel with 1920 x 1080 resolution, 6.4 μm pixel pitch, 93% fill factor and a 12.5 x 7.1 mm active area. With operation from 400 to 850 nm, it offers a phase stroke of 2π at 633 nm (standard mode) and 5.7π at 532 nm (extended mode).

The unit is driven by a standard digital video interface (HDMI) signal and provides a refresh rate of 60 Hz in standard mode and 180 Hz in the frame boost mode. The configuration parameters and easy-to-use software interface facilitate the high performance of diversified applications ranging from standalone functions to integrated research-grade systems.

The product is bundled with a software graphical user interface (GUI) that provides complete control over the device and supports different driving modes including full frame, image input, video input, Fresnel lens, diffraction and computer-generated holography (CGH). The CGH mode also allows tilting and focusing effects to be superimposed onto a pattern to achieve combined functionalities.

The built-in SLM panel provides independent horizontal and vertical tilt adjustment of ±3.2°. Customised versions that have the panel separated from the control unit are also available on request.