Generation of arbitrary vector beams with a spatial light modulator and a common path interferometric arrangement

We describe a convenient approach for generating arbitrary vector beams in a 4-f system with a spatial light modulator (SLM) and a common path interferometric arrangement. A computer-generated hologram is introduced onto SLM for performing the beam conversion. Optical realization of a variety of polarization configurations confirms the reliability and flexibility of our method. (c) 2007 Optical Society of America.