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 3$\pi$. Significant broadening of the frequency band at a relatively high diffraction efficiency is observed at high phase-modulation indices. Simultaneous application of indices of $\pi$ and 3$\pi$ allows a decrease in the control power to practically acceptable levels that provide continuous operation.