Twisted Nematic Liquid Crystal Devices
Summary Meadowlark Optics has been a leader in nematic liquid crystal (LC) devices for over 25 years, pioneering liquid crystal variable retarders (LCVRs) for precision optical applications. LCVRs offer low-voltage electrical control of retardance (typically ≤20V) and have largely replaced high-voltage Pockels cells in many applications. However, Twisted Nematic (TN) Liquid Crystal Devices provide distinct […]
Liquid Crystal in Precision Optical Devices
Summary While liquid crystal technology is widely known for display applications, its role in scientific and engineering fields is rapidly expanding. Liquid crystal devices (LCDs) are now critical for beam steering, wavefront modulation, and polarization switching in precision optical systems. Unlike traditional flat-panel displays, high-performance liquid crystal optics require specialized construction techniques to achieve superior […]
Achromatic Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Polarization Rotator
Summary Precise polarization rotation with minimal polarization purity loss is essential for optical switching, polarimetry, and microscopy. Traditional liquid crystal (LC) polarization rotators enable non-mechanical tuning, but their performance is limited to specific wavelengths. Ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) devices, however, offer faster response times and can switch between two orthogonal polarization states. By placing an […]
An Economical Means for Accurate Azimuthal Alignment of Polarization Optics
Summary Accurate azimuthal alignment of polarization optics, such as polarizers and retarders, is crucial for many polarized light applications. This document introduces a simple opto-mechanical tool designed for precise alignment using two rotatable mounts—one holding a polarizer and the other a half-wave retarder. The method of swings, illustrated with the Poincaré Sphere, is employed to […]
Finding the Optimal Polarizer
Summary This document provides an in-depth overview of linear polarization, the types of linear polarizers, and the key specifications for selecting the ideal polarizer for various applications. It details dichroic polymer, dichroic glass, wire grid, beamsplitting, and crystalline polarizers, emphasizing their transmission, contrast ratio, and other critical factors such as laser damage threshold and mechanical […]
Basic Polarization Techniques and Devices
Summary This application note provides an overview of light polarization, retardation, and key optical components used to manipulate polarization states. It explains how optical isolators, light attenuators, polarization rotators, and variable beam splitters function by using combinations of polarizers and retarders. Quarter wave and half wave retarders play crucial roles in modifying polarization by shifting […]
Liquid Crystal Operating Principles
Meadowlark Optics DOWNLOAD PRINCIPLES Liquid Crystal Variable Retarders are solid state, real-time, continuously tunable waveplates. Nematic liquid crystals are birefringent materials whose effective birefringence can be changed by varying an applied voltage. Meadowlark Optics Liquid Crystal Retarders are constructed using precision polished, optically flat fused silica windows spaced a few microns apart. The cavity is […]
