Abstract: An apparatus and method for modifying the spread of a laser beam. The apparatus comprises a laser source operable to generate a laser beam having a flux that exceeds a predetermined value and an optical train operable to modify the beam such that the flux of the beam through a predetermined aperture does not exceed the predetermined value. The optical train may include a focusing lens, a diffractive focusing vortex lens, a beam splitting device, or a two-dimensional diffraction grating.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for modifying the spread of a laser beam. The apparatus comprises a laser source operable to generate a laser beam having a flux that exceeds a predetermined value and an optical train operable to modify the beam such that the flux of the beam through a predetermined aperture does not exceed the predetermined value. The optical train may include a focusing lens, a diffractive focusing vortex lens, a beam splitting device, or a diffraction grating.

Abstract: Devices and methods for processing multi-wavelength light beams and the single-wavelength components of such light beams are disclosed. In accordance with some embodiments, a spectral filter includes collimating and focusing optical elements, an apodizing filter, a diffraction grating, and a spatial filter. The collimating optical element collimates an input light beam while the apodizing filter spatially filters this beam. In general, the apodizing filter includes a range of transmissivity that varies according to a distance from a predetermined location on the apodizing filter. The diffraction grating diffracts the input beam which is focused by the focusing optical element onto the spatial filter to generate a filtered output beam. Embodiments of the invention may be employed as spectral filters, optical spectrum analyzers, optical mutiplexers, optical de-multiplexers, and the like.

Abstract: A spectrum analyzer includes an array of frequency-selective bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonators each tuned to a predetermined different resonant frequency. The spectrum analyzer further includes a broadband BAW resonator that generates acoustic energy when connected to a signal source. An acoustic coupling transmits the acoustic energy generated by the broadband BAW resonator to the frequency-selective BAW resonators so that one of the frequency-selective BAW resonators will generate an electrical output signal if the acoustic energy transmitted from the broadband BAW resonator contains spectral components at its predetermined resonant frequency.

Abstract: An apparatus for optically shifting the frequency of an input signal beam includes a first Raman medium that receives an input signal beam, a first pump beam, and a first reference beam to responsively generate an intermediate signal beam comprising a Raman sideband of the first Raman medium. A second Raman medium is optically coupled in series with the first Raman medium. The second Raman medium receives the intermediate signal beam, a second pump beam, and a second reference beam to responsively generate an output signal beam comprising a Raman sideband of the second Raman medium. The generated output signal represents the input signal that is shifted in frequency by a frequency shift that corresponds to the frequency difference between the first and second reference beams.

Abstract: Optical systems are provided. One such optical system includes an optical source that propagates a source beam of light. A diffracting component is optically coupled to the optical source and is operative to receive the source beam and produce a diffracted beam. A target is located to receive the diffracted beam. Additionally, a compensating system repositions at least one of the optical source, the diffracting component, and the target in response to a detected change in refractive index of a medium through which the diffracted beam propagates so that the diffracted beam continues to be received by the target. Methods and other systems also are provided.

Abstract: Systems for tuning external-cavity lasers are provided. A representative system includes a motor and first and second opposing surfaces that are displaceable by the motor. The opposing surfaces operatively engage a support at a drive segment and rotate the drive segment about a pivot point on the support. Between the drive segment and the pivot point of the support, a reflective element is attached. An optical gain medium optically communicates with the reflective element. Other systems are also provided.