Planar holographic optical processing devices

Time-domain optical processing implemented through linear spectral filtering offers unique potential for future high-bandwidth communications systems. One key to realization of this potential is the development of robust, cost-effective, fully integrated filtering devices. A new spectral filtering device concept, derived from the unique properties of index holograms stamped or otherwise written in thin planar waveguide slabs, is described. The holograms that are described provide for high-resolution spectral filtering while at the same time mapping general input spatial waveforms to desired output waveforms.