title: Low-coherence interference microscopy with an improved switchable achromatic phase-shifter.
abstract: We present results obtained with a computer-controlled low-coherence interference microscope featuring a modified optical layout that uses a pair of fast switchable achromatic phase-shifters. This layout makes it possible to use ferro-electric liquid-crystal devices made with readily available FLC materials having a switching angle of 45 degrees , and obtain phase shifts of 0 degrees and +/-90 degrees . The use of phase shifts of 0 degrees and +/-90 degrees simplifies calculations of the fringe visibility and the fractional fringe-order and yields maximum accuracy.
authors.forename: Maitreyee
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Roy
authors.forename: Guy
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Cox
authors.forename: Parameswaran
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Hariharan