Computer generated Fourier holograms for undergraduate optics laboratory

A.Vijayakumar, B.J. Jackin and P.K.Palanisamy

Electrical Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai - 600036

A computer simulation technique for generating Fourier holograms using the Fraunhofer diffraction formula is discussed. These generated Fourier holograms were verified for optical reconstruction after printing them on to films and the results were compared with the simulated reconstruction. A detailed analysis was done on the computation and optical reconstruction. Filtering techniques were employed and corresponding reconstructions were verified. MATLAB was used for computer simulation. The algorithm of the MATLAB program is discussed. Using this technique, computer generated holograms can be easily generated in a PC even at UG level.