Fully programmable two-dimensional ultra-complex broadband fine-resolution pulse shaping

We present a fully programmable pulse shaping apparatus capable of simultaneous amplitude and phase control at a very fine resolution over a broad bandwidth. This programmable shaper features a two-dimensional dispersion profile which is achieved by using both a Virtually Imaged Phased Array (VIPA) as well as a transmission grating as spectral dispersers. Calibration techniques will be discussed which transform this static setup into a fully programmable one having automated wavelength to spatial mapping, phase calibration, and the ability to be operated in a closed-loop manner. The programmability is achieved through the use of a 2-D Liquid Crystal on Silicon phase-only spatial light modulator. Experimental results are shown that include line-by-line amplitude and phase shaping of 5 GHz frequency combs as well as an application in optically assisted radio frequency arbitrary waveform generation.