Using Lasers with DLP® technology

The following is a paper discusses the diffractive properties of the DLP® chip.

• Using Lasers with DLP® DMD technology
  Using_Lasers_with_DLP(r)_Technology.pdf (268 Kb)
  Sep 2008 Download

Abstract:

The DLP® Digital Micromirror Device [DMD] has long been used in video projection optics for commercial and consumer applications, but the DMD is also an attractive Spatial Light Modulator for applications that may involve monochromatic and/or coherent light sources.

The DMD presents some unique advantages and considerations that must be understood for these applications particularly when using coherent or semi-coherent sources with the DMD. When used with such sources the DMD is in fact a 2D array of periodically spaced mirrors and the diffractive effects on coherent light cannot be ignored, but can be understood and even exploited.

The purpose of this paper is to present an intuitive understanding of the 2D diffraction and the advantages and challenges that result.