Free-Space Acousto-Optic Modulator/Shifter

SKU: AOMS

The AOMS series fiberoptic acousto-optic modulators enable high-speed optical intensity modulation optimized for the 523 -2300 nm wavelength range. Built with high-purity TeO2 crystal, they feature low insertion loss, a high damage threshold, and fast switching. When driven at their resonance frequency, the device satisfies the Bragg diffraction condition, deflecting light at a specific angle (first order). Intensity is controlled by varying the RF drive amplitude (0–5 V via SMA input). The modulator inherently introduces a positive frequency shift, with negative shift versions available upon request. It operates over a narrow wavelength range, with the output angle dependent on the input wavelength. A matching driver is available.
The AOMS rise/fall time is directly related to the optical beam diameter, following the relation Rise Time ≈ D / v, where D is the laser beam diameter in the acoustic propagation direction and v is the acoustic velocity in the AOM crystal. Therefore, reducing the beam size increases modulation speed and bandwidth.