Lithium niobate crystal as a light modulator

A new LiNbO3 light modulator (designated as ML-4) was developed for modulation of λ = 0.45–2 μ radiation in the 0–100 MHz range. The modulator is based on the transverse linear electrooptic effect in LiNbO₃. It is in the form of an electrooptic element placed in a casing which can be used for adjustment. The modulator can operate continuously for 300 h and it is resistant to mechanical and climatic perturbations. These properties make it useful in a wide range of practical applications.