| Abstract: | Abstract— A new type of diffractive spatial optical modulators (SOMs) has been developed for projection‐display and other applications such as holographic data storage, programmable lithography, and optical communications. It exhibits the inherent advantages of fast response time and high‐performance light modulation, suitable for high‐quality and high‐resolution projection displays. The ±1st‐order efficiency and contrast ratio of 39% and 1000:1 was achieved for a prototype SOM. The response time can be as fast as 0.7μsec with a 400‐nm displacement, enough to make a full‐HD display, being driven by 10‐V. A laser display in full‐HD format (1920 × 1080) was successfully demonstrated by using prototype projection engines having SOM devices, signal‐processing circuits, and projection optics. |
