SBIR-STTR Award

Optroceramics hold promise to produce leading edge retromodulators; a critical component for laser communications. In this program, NZ Applied Technologies proposes to demonstrate and fabricate a high performance solid-state modulator possessing high speed, polarization insensitive operation, ceramic ruggedness, low optical loss, and low fabrication cost. The technology is based upon large electro-optic effect ceramic materials and innovative device architecture. The design is simple and compact with low fabrication cost potential. It is anticipated that state-of-the-art performance of several key specifications can be achieved through this program. These include high data rate, low optical insertion loss, wide temperature operation, broad band, and cost effectiveness. Prototype modulators will be fabricated to demonstrate feasibility in Phase I

Currently, achieving higher modulation rate at lower optical loss is the major technology issue to meet the operational requirements for practical implantation of advanced modulated corner cube concept for numerous military laser communication applications of both ground and space. To substantially increase the modulation rate beyond that of the available liquid crystal technologies, an alternate modulation technology must be developed. Optoceramics hold promise to produce leading edge retro-modulators. In the phase I program, NZ Applied Technologies have demonstrated a solid-state electro-optic retro-modulator that has fast response (<0.5 (micro)s), low polarization sensitivity (<0.4dB), ceramic ruggedness, high extinction ratio (>16dB) and low optic insertion loss (<1.3dB). The technology is based upon large electro-optic effect optoceramic materials and innovative device architecture. For the phase II program, we propose to build on these impressive initial results to create a fully functional retro-modulator. It is anticipated that state-of-the-art performance of several key specifications can be achieved through this phase II program. These include high date rate (>5Mbs), low optical insertion loss (<1.0dB), low polarization sensitivity (<0.3dB), high extinction ratio (>20dB), large clear aperture (2"x2"), broadband (500nm ~ 2000nm light), moderate energy consumption, and cost effectiveness.

Keywords:
LASER COMMUNICATIONRETRO-REFLECTOR OPTOCERAMICS ELECTRO-OPTIC MODULATION LIGHT VALVES