Acousto-optic deflector: A new method to increase the efficiency and bandwidth

A new type of acousto-optic deflector based on anisotropic diffraction in paratellurite crystal is developed. Specific features of the method and proposed device are related to the broadening of the angular scanning range at a relatively high diffraction efficiency. The method is based on the application of the properties of the Bragg diffraction at phase modulation indices of 3π. Significant broadening of the frequency band at a relatively high diffraction efficiency is observed at high phase-modulation indices. Simultaneous application of indices of π and 3π allows a decrease in the control power to practically acceptable levels that provide continuous operation.