A HOLOGRAPHIC MULTIPLEXER/DEMULTIPLEXER AND WAVELENGTH EXCHANGER

摘要

A holographic multiplexer/demultiplexer (20) for separating and combining pre-selected wavelengths. Included is a holographic element that contains a specifically written recording of multiple separate focal points (30,32), one for each of a plurality of different pre-selected wavelengths. The holographic multiplexer/demultiplexer separates the different wavelengths contained within a single beam of radiation (12), and focuses each wavelength to a separate pre-recorded focal point. The holographic multiplexer/demultiplexer also multiplexes multiple beams containing a single wavelength of radiation, into a single beam and focuses the single beam to a pre-recorded focal point. The holographic multiplexer/demultiplexer can also be used as a wavelength exchanger.