A Study on the Interferometer Configuration for Improvement of Signal-to-Noise Ratio of Optical Coherence Tomography System

As a noninvasive imaging method, optical coherence tomography system has been extensively studied because it has some advantages such as imaging of high resolution, low cost, and compact size configuration. In order to improve the SNR of OCT system, two types of interferometers were configured and then, we compared simulation with measurement of reference sample. In the OCT system is configured with Michelson interferometer, the contrast of cross-sectional image is reduced with low SNR detection which is due to loss of feedback interference signal from light source part. Also, in order to image measured data with real time, image processing program is constructed. From results of simulation, it is confirmed that improved Michelson interferometer is improved about 10[dB] with a 50 : 50 fiber coupler. And from the measurement of reference sample, about 5[dB] is improved with a 50 : 50 fiber coupler. It is confirmed that the OCT system is configured with the improved Michelson interferometer which has a good distinctive cross-sectional image due to higher contrast.