A new LCOS microdisplay with a fast CMOS backplane enhances light modulation for applications in AR/VR, optogenetics, and quantum computing.
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems (IPMS), in partnership with HOLOEYE Photonics AG, have developed an innovative LCOS (liquid crystal on silicon) microdisplay. This compact display leverages a high-speed CMOS backplane to deliver faster optical modulation.Â
Built for efficiency, LCOS microdisplays are valued for their minimal power usage, portability, and versatility. These displays, often employed as phase modulators, serve a range of industries including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and biomedical imaging. By addressing needs such as wavefront correction and beam shaping, they ensure superior image quality while protecting delicate samples. The compact design and high performance make this innovation especially appealing to professionals in fields like quantum computing, holography, and neuroscience.
This latest LCOS microdisplay incorporates modern CMOS backplane, allowing it to achieve unprecedented refresh rates tailored for demanding optical applications. Matthias Verworn from HOLOEYE remarked, “With the new backplane generation from IPMS, we can realise compact micro-SLMs and specifically address applications with requirements for a small form factor.” He also emphasized the advantages of smaller pixel sizes for better diffraction angles and the adaptability of its fast interface for precise control.
Capable of transferring data at speeds up to 576Gbit/s, the microdisplay uses a pixel array with a resolution of 1440 x 1080 and a pixel size of just 2.5µm. This technological advancement enables groundbreaking applications in wearable AR systems, structured photo stimulation of neurons, and other cutting-edge scientific endeavours. “The newly developed backplane architecture of our compact LCOS microdisplay significantly expands the possibilities for light modulation and far exceeds existing refresh rates,” said Philipp Wartenberg, head of IC and system design, Fraunhofer IPMS.
The first commercial products featuring this advanced LCOS microdisplay are expected to launch in 2026, promising transformative impacts across numerous technological domains.
