Optical-data-processing properties of a liquid-crystal television spatial light modulator

The potential of the extremely inexpensive Radio Shack liquid-crystal television (LCTV) as a two-dimensional spatial light modulator has been investigated. The LCTV modulates the transmission of coherent or incoherent light and can either be electronically addressed through a microcomputer or optically addressed with a TV camera. We have measured the transmission characteristics of the device, examined its diffraction pattern, and tested its use as an input device for an optical correlator. We have discovered that, with proper modifications, it has potential for optical-data-processing applications.