Abstract: In a light scanning apparatus, such as in a laser printer, an optical switch is provided between a light source and an acousto-optic light-modulating element for modulating the light according to data to be printed. The optical switch may be an acousto-optic light-modulating element as well. The optical switch blocks or passes the continuously input light from the light source according to a predetermined schedule, such as eight bits prior to the start of black dots and eight bits after the end of the block dots, or during a stand-by period. The time during which a fine light spot is focused on the acousto-optic light-modulating element is thus shortened. Accordingly, the life of the acousto-optic light-modulating element is increased because of the shortened duration of the focusing of the input light. Achievement of the fine spot size allows finer print-out resolution without sacrificing scan speed or the life of the element.

Abstract: The use of large sensor and phase shifter arrays in phase conjugation adaptive systems is currently limited by the computational power conventionally employed to solve small arrays. Noting that in large arrays many of the derivatives of wavefront slopes are zero, then the properties of sparse matrix mathematics may be used to efficiently calculate the extent of movement of a particular actuator to deform a mirror and thus compensate for phase distortions in an incoming wavefront. Apparatus and methods are provided for handling such large arrays.