Electro-Optic Modulation of CO2 Laser Light
Abstract
An experiment was performed to obtain single-sideband modulation of circularly polarized CO2 laser radiation. The sideband was generated through the application of an effectively rotating electric field to an electro-optic crystal of cadmium-telluride through which light was passed. The theoretical basis for producing the frequency shift is presented as well as a detailed description of the experimental procedures and results. Frequency shifts of 200 to 500 MHz were obtained with an efficiency of 0.01 percent, and carrier-to- sideband suppression ratios up to 45 dB were achieved. Methods for improving these values are suggested which would allow the frequency-shifted signal to be used as the local oscillator in a heterodyne-detection system with state-of-the- art photovoltaic mercury-cadmium-telluride detectors.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA066611
Entities
People
- Dennis P. Wilkins
Organizations
- Harry Diamond Laboratories