Abstract: A space-time division multiple-access (STDMA) laser communications (lasercom) system and related techniques. The STDMA system includes a plurality of remote nodes and an STDMA access node which uses precise electronic beam steering and beacons to provide access to each of a plurality of remote access nodes by means of both space and time-division multiple access.

Abstract: A transmissive beam steering aperture includes a common superstrate provided from an optical material and having first and second opposing surfaces with at least one of the first and second surfaces having an electrode coating provided thereon to provide the at least one surface as a common electrode surface and having a first plurality of electrically isolated common electrodes. One or more electrode containing substrates is disposed over respective ones of the first plurality of electrically isolated common electrodes to form one or more one liquid crystal (LC) cells. In one embodiment, the transmissive beam steering aperture is used as an aperture in an optical phased array.

Abstract: Described herein are structures and techniques for providing an LC cell having a hermetically sealed cover disposed over a fill hole provided in a superstrate. The superstrate and cover have adhesion layers disposed thereon. Solder is disposed or otherwise provided around the fill hole (e.g. either on the cover or the superstrate or as a separate piece). The cover is then disposed over the fill hole and the solder is reflowed to form the hermetic seal over the fill hole.

Abstract: A space-time division multiple-access (STDMA) laser communications (lasercom) system and related techniques. The STDMA system includes a plurality of remote nodes and an STDMA access node which uses precise electronic beam steering and beacons to provide access to each of a plurality of remote access nodes by means of both space and time-division multiple access.

Abstract: A process for generating a set of tests for a system includes identifying a plurality of factors to use in a design of experiments (DOE) test, using each of the plurality of factors in the DOE, identifying, through the DOE testing, one or more factors which have a significant effect an output of the system, including only the one or more factors in a Combinatorial design methodology (CDM) and generating a first test matrix based upon the CDM using the DOE inputs. The unique part of the process is then adding interactions of order greater than 2-way, as identified by the DOE, to the CDM matrix thus creating an optimized set of test cases. By using the sensitivity output of the DOE as an input to the final test matrix from the CDM, an affordable yet comprehensive test approach is provided.